Florida News That Impacts You – July 14th, 2023
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Florida’s 3rd nationally for pedestrian fatalities according to an annual study from the Governors Highway Safety Association. The report shows 2022 was the worst year for pedestrian deaths nationally since 1981, with a total of 7,500. In Florida, there were a total of 824 pedestrian fatalities, or about 11% of the country’s total. Florida accounts for just under 7% of the country’s population.
- A new study of invasive species in Florida has shown that in addition to the disruption of native species and habitats, economic harm costs the state hundreds of millions of dollars per year. Agricultural industry losses topped $179 million alone last year. Florida Fish and Wildlife has identified nearly 500 invasive species which are active within Florida.
- With about a month to go before the start of the upcoming school year the Palm Beach County School District is actively looking for 80 additional school bus drivers. The School District says the positions pay up to $20 per hour, includes a one-time $2,500 bonus which jumps to $5,000 for drivers who have a CDL. The District needed 100 bus drivers at the same time a year ago.
- Gas prices have dropped a penny over the past day. Statewide the average price for regular unleaded is currently $3.44 per gallon – 1 cent higher than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.59 per gallon, which is the highest price in the state.