Florida News That Impacts You – May 10th, 2023
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Governor DeSantis signed five education themed bills into law on Tuesday. Those included the Employee Organizations Representing Public Employees bill, which limits the influence of teachers’ unions over teachers, the K-12 Teachers bill, which provides for raises for teachers. The governor signed the Education bill, which creates a year-round school pilot program for four years, he also signed the Terms Limits for District School Board Members bill, which limits school board terms to eight years and the Technology in K-12 Public Schools bill, which requires school districts to filter online content, including blocking the use of social media sites on government owned devices and banning the use of Chinese government backed services like TikTok. The laws take effect July 1st.
- An organized crime ring has been taken down in West Palm Beach. Known as Operation Blockbuster, 29 arrests were made in an organized crime operation which was responsible for drug and arms running in addition to operating a prostitution ring. Five agencies – local to federal – were involved in the takedown of the operation. Separately, an illegal gambling ring was busted by The Florida Gaming Control Commission. Illegal gambling operations were found across the state including in a Delray Beach arcade.
- New research from ATTOM Data shows nearly two-thirds of South Florida property owners with mortgages have at least 50% equity in their homes – well above the state and national averages. Palm Beach County has the highest percentage of mortgage holders with at least 50% equity in their homes at 68.3%
- Gas prices rose a penny yesterday. Statewide the average price for regular unleaded is currently $3.53 per gallon – nine cents lower than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.75 per gallon, which is the highest price in the state.