Florida News That Impacts You – February 16th, 2024
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Recent movers in the state legislative session include the Interstate Safety bill which passed the House on a nearly unanimous vote. The bill would mandate that the left lane of roads with speed limits of 65mph or higher would be for passing only. The Food and Hemp Products bill which would limit THC levels in hemp products unanimously passed the Senate. The Release of Balloons bill, which would make it illegal to intentionally release helium balloons, passed the House on a nearly unanimous vote. The Taking of Bears bill also passed the House with a divided vote. The bill would allow for homeowners to use lethal force to kill bears on their property without a permit if they feel they’re in danger. The Transportation Facility Designations bill, which would rename A1A the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway passed the House unanimously. The Fantasy Sports Contest Amusement Act, which would enable playing fantasy sports for stakes advanced through a key House committee. The Food Delivery Platforms bill, which would allow the state to regulate food delivery companies, passed its final Senate committee stop and is ready for a vote before the full Senate.
- Six additional schools in Palm Beach County will begin using metal detectors on Tuesday. Those schools are Boca Raton Community High School, Dwyer High School, Glades Central Community High School, Indian Ridge School and Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School and Turning Points Academy.
- Warmer weather today with highs in the upper -70's, which is about 4 degrees warmer than usual for this date. We’ll have highs in the 80’s tomorrow before a cold front enters the area bringing rain along with it.
- The recent rise in gas prices paused on Thursday. The average price statewide for regular unleaded is $3.33 per gallon - a penny lower than yesterday, though 18 cents higher than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.51 per gallon, in Martin the average is $3.42 and in Indian River County the average is $3.35 per gallon.