Florida News – Highlights from around the state – February 11th
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the some of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- According to a study by the University of Central Florida, the vacation rental business is now a $28+ billion industry in Florida. The economic impact of companies like Airbnb is now responsible for an estimated 115,000 jobs statewide.
- The authorization of drones for standard police use cleared its 2nd to last committee in the state Senate. The proposal would allow drones to be used by law enforcement as standard policing – not just during times of adversity. Currently 12 counties and 32 agencies are using drones statewide – or about 20% of law enforcement agencies in the state.
- The 8-year school board term limit bill cleared its final Senate committee and looks to be on track to pass in this session.
- After advancing through the Florida House, the state Senate has now begun the process of considering the proposed change for constitutional amendments. Currently only 10% of needed signatures are required to bring proposed amendments before the Florida Supreme Court. The bill would raise the threshold to 50%
- A bill that’d expand E-bike regs to allow for use of them on roads, paths or sidewalks up to 28 mph, passed in a Senate Committee and is only one stop away from consideration before the full House and Senate.
- A bill that’d regulate limousine services as ride sharing companies cleared a Senate committee and appears to be ready to be fast-tracked through the state session.