Florida News – Highlights from around the state – March 24th
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the some of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- The state has now closed all 175 parks operated by the Florida Park Service. Governor DeSantis issued the directive based on the latest CDC recommendations. Over the weekend groups of people were commonly spotted in parks across the state.
- Miami Beach has issued a stay at home order for non-essential professionals. This came after discussing their plans with several municipalities. Alachua County and Gainesville issued the order earlier in the day. Gainsville has had UF students test positive after Spring Break parties.
- The Florida Lottery offices statewide are closed to the public until further notice. Winners can mail in their winning tickets or wait until offices reopen.
- The University of Florida is set to begin COVID-19 testing and related research aimed at finding asymptomatic carriers who can transmit the virus to vulnerable people. They’re acting in a partnership with the state.
- Governor DeSantis announced a significant influx of New Yorkers fleeing the virus which is worst in New York. DeSantis said he hasn’t wanted to “lock down” the state but these individuals could represent additional risks should any be carrying/contagious while traveling.As a result, he’s issued an order for those traveling to Florida from New York and New Jersey to self-quarantine for 14 days once arriving here.