Florida News that impacts you – May 26th
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the some of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- US District Court Judge Robert Hinkle has ruled against the state of Florida in the case challenging financial restitution as a prerequisite for the restoration of felon voting rights. Hinkle’s ruling stated felons “who are able to pay” should prior to gaining access to voting rights but that those who couldn’t shouldn’t be blocked. This comes after Amendment 4’s passage in 2018 cleared the path for expanded felon voting rights. Amendment 4 advocates argued financial restitution would be included before the Florida Supreme Court as a condition of having the measure included on ballots, however after its passage, they fought the financial conditions. The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the state on this basis, however federal courts have sided with those seeking no financial restitution. This case will be appealed and may well be decided by the Supreme Court.
- The State has now approved 42 of Florida’s 67 counties for vacation rentals including Orange County. The nearest to South Florida is Martin. Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties have yet to seek approval from the state for accepting vacation rentals.
- Speaking of reopening's...today is reopening day for Broward’s beaches and hotels.
- FIU’s Dr. Aileen Marty has issued a warning about south Florida’s wastewater. She stated it’s full of COVID-19 and could pose a threat to those exposed. It’s also a reminder to be extra cautious with localized flooding due to the recent rainfall.