Florida News That Impacts You – August 22nd, 2023
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- The tropics remain active with five disturbances; however, none currently poses a threat to Florida. Tropical storm Harold is expected to make landfall in Southern Texas today. Tropical Storm Franklin is expected to make landfall in Hispaniola tomorrow and Gert – which has been downgraded to a tropical depression is expected to dissipate without a landfall this afternoon.
- The State of Florida has issued a record 407,000 vouchers for families seeking educational choice this school year. The updated figures from the Florida Department of Education show an increase of 157,000 total participants with Florida’s recently enacted universal school choice law.
- Following a recent decision by the Town of Jupiter to create its own fire department, which would take effect in 2026, residents have created an online petition aimed at keeping Palm Beach County Fire Rescue in place. Those behind the ballot petition have asserted insurance breaks currently obtained with existing fire services in place may not be available with a newly created fire department. Jupiter officials have estimated that the town would save an average of $6.8 million annually by creating its own fire department.
- Gas prices dropped a couple cents on Monday. Statewide the average price for regular unleaded is currently $3.79 per gallon – 2 cents higher than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.95 per gallon, which is the second highest price in the state.