Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC) has a long history of influencing state, federal and international policies that impact sea turtles and their habitats. STC places a special emphasis on the policy decisions made in Florida because, as the third-most populous state and a global diversity hotspot, the lawmaking decisions in Florida have wide-ranging impacts for marine life. Florida’s beaches are among the most important nesting grounds for threatened and endangered sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere. In addition, Florida’s vast sea grass beds, lagoons, estuaries and nearshore reefs are utilized by sea turtles during various stages of their life cycle. Through tireless effort and science-based education, STC has influenced numerous changes in policy for the benefit of Florida’s sea turtles.

Every year, the Florida Legislature, made up of 120 House members and 40 Senate members, convenes to pass legislation. STC closely monitors bills and policies that could positively or negatively impact Florida’s sea turtles and their habitats and, when necessary, calls upon its members and followers to contact legislators about these policies.