Florida News That Impacts You – March 12th, 2024
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Florida has been added to the beta test for the IRS’ Direct File pilot program. Twelve states, including Florida, will be able to use IRS provided software to e-file simple tax returns for free. The pilot program begins today, and it is available for those earning $79,000 or less who will take the standard deduction.
- A settlement has been reached with the state and opponents of Florida’s Parental Rights in Education law. Under the settlement, students and faculty can discuss gender identity and sexual orientation in school if it’s not part of the official classroom instruction. The remainder of the law remains unchanged. The Florida Board of Education will reissue rules reflecting this change.
- Early voting for the March 19th Presidential Preference primary and municipal elections continues today. In Palm Beach County early voting will continue through Sunday the 17th, over 9% of eligible voters have either voted early or by mail thus far. In Martin and Indian River Counties early voting runs through Saturday the 16th. Martin County voter turnout currently stands at 10% with turnout in Indian River County at 12%.
- A cooler start to the day today with temps in the low 60’s with highs in the upper 70’s, or about two degrees warmer than usual for this date. Warmer temps are on the way for the rest of the week.
- Gas prices dropped two cents per gallon on Monday. The average price statewide for regular unleaded is currently $3.39 per gallon. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.59 per gallon, in Martin the average is $3.49 and in Indian River County the average is $3.44 per gallon.