Governor Scott has faced some backlash over controversial legislation that limits the public’s access to beaches.

Holding a news conference on Santa Rosa Beach, Senator Bill Nelson commented that “This law – and the confusion it has created – is turning residents and visitors away from our world-renowned sugar-white sand beaches and that’s just not what Florida is all about. Our tourism-driven economy is at risk and there’s only one way to make it right: a special session of the state Legislature to fix the law. Beachgoers should be able to enjoy the sun and the sand without being harassed and without worrying whether they’ll be arrested and what they’ve been experiencing on our beaches is just not right.”

In response to Senator Nelson’s accusations, Governor Rick Scott’s campaign released a statement explaining that “It’s been widely reported that this legislation, which was passed with overwhelming support from both Democrats and Republicans, does not privatize Florida’s beaches.”

The statement continues detailing that “Unlike Washington politicians like Bill Nelson, when there was confusion regarding the interpretation of a new law, Governor Scott took action to address it. Governor Scott took executive action to protect beach access and has been clear that he is committed to keeping our beaches open to public.”

Finally, it argues that “With the national flood insurance program days away from expiring, Bill Nelson should be in Washington doing his job – not intentionally misleading Floridians at a political stunt.”