A new proposal would cut Florida in half. For years activists across the country have been making similar proposals to split current states into multiple pieces. One 2013 idea suggested cutting California into six. But Nick Evans reports a South Florida politician believes the ideal number of Floridas is two.
South Miami Vice Mayor Walter Harris wants to cut the state along the border of the south Florida water management district. Generally speaking, everything south of Orlando would become a new state. Harris says people have suggested breaking up Florida for a long time.
“It’s not a new concept. However, the fact is, what is a new concept is the absolute undeniable reality of climate change.”
Harris says the proposed south Florida will face unique regional challenges as sea levels rise, and a new state would allow lawmakers to focus on the issue. The city council narrowly approved the plan, but splitting a state requires Congressional approval after first being endorsed by the state Legislature – the same governmental body Harris argues is ignorant of South Florida’s needs.
