Tallahassee, FL

Breaking: Big Sugar's Muzzle Clause is Dead

24 February 2026

Florida House Strips Disparagement Provision from HB 433 Following Widespread Public Opposition

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida House today removed Section 47 from HB 433, eliminating the controversial disparagement provision that had raised significant concerns about free speech and public accountability.

This was a direct attempt to make speaking truth about powerful interests legally and financially dangerous. Had it passed, it would have chilled speech not just for Captains For Clean Water, but for guides, scientists, journalists, parents, and anyone willing to raise concerns about environmental or public-health impacts.

This provision posed serious concerns about the right of everyday citizens to speak honestly about issues impacting their health, families, and communities. Protecting our waters depends on the ability to raise concerns openly and without fear of financial retaliation.

—Capt. Daniel Andrews, CEO of Captains For Clean Water

30 Days of Sustained Public Engagement

Over the past month, Captains For Clean Water led one of the largest advocacy mobilizations in its history in opposition to the provision, faced with no shortage of controversy in the process.

In just 30 days:

4.2 million people were reached through digital advocacy efforts.
12,781 Captains supporters contacted their legislators.
Thousands of calls and emails flooded committee offices.
Dozens of fishing guides traveled repeatedly to Tallahassee to provide public testimony.
A network of creators and influencers from the outdoor and public health communities mobilized at scale, generating millions of views and bringing national attention to the issue.

The sustained public pressure followed multiple committee hearings in both chambers over a period of weeks, where individuals from across Florida testified in opposition to the provision.

These efforts resulted in lawmakers removing the disparagement provision from Senate Bill 290 on February 10, with the House following suit this morning.

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Built for Moments Like This

Captains For Clean Water stated that the organization’s rapid response was made possible by long-term investments in advocacy infrastructure, including real-time data systems, digital mobilization tools, and cross-sector coalition building.

Threats to environmental progress often surface quietly and move quickly. Our organization is designed to confront them head-on and mobilize at scale; especially when we're told they can't be stopped.

—Capt. Daniel Andrews, CEO of Captains For Clean Water

Looking Ahead

While the removal of the provision marks a significant development, the legislative session continues through March 13. Captains For Clean Water indicated it will remain engaged to ensure similar language is not reintroduced in another form.

Today’s action protects the space necessary for public accountability. We appreciate the lawmakers who recognized the concerns raised and acted accordingly.

—Capt. Daniel Andrews, CEO of Captains For Clean Water

For updates on Florida water policy and ongoing issues affecting Everglades restoration, visit www.captainsforcleanwater.org.

For interviews or inquiries, contact Alycia Downs at alycia@captainsforcleanwater.org.