Florida News That Impacts You – January 23rd, 2024
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Movers in Monday’s legislative session included the Medical Negligence bill which would cap non-economic medical malpractice awards. The Millage Rates bill, which would require a two-thirds vote by local governments to raise millage rates advanced on a party-line vote. The Release of Balloons bill also advanced which would make the intentional release of helium balloons illegal. Sponsors note the negative impact of released balloons on wildlife and the environment. The Condominium and Cooperative Associations bill also advanced which would provide greater accountability for residents in communities which have been harmed by the actions or inactions of boards.
- West Palm Beach officials unanimously approved a redevelopment project where the AMC movie theater and Palm Beach Improv were located in The Square. The project calls for two high-rise mixed-use towers to be built. The development will include office and retail space and a parking garage. The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
- Indian River State College is about to open enrollment for its free Associate Degree program for the third consecutive year. Called The Promise program, graduating seniors in Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties are eligible to apply for enrollment in the program which is valued at $6,000. Enrollment opens Wednesday and will remain open through May 24th.
- Today will be another windy day but with warmer temperatures. Today’s high is in the mid to upper 70’s which is a few degrees warmer than usual for this time of year. Our weather will continue to warm up tonight through tomorrow with highs near 80 tomorrow.
- Gas prices rose considerably on Monday. The average price statewide for regular unleaded is now $3.08 per gallon- 9 cents higher than yesterday and a penny higher than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.28 per gallon, in Martin the average is $3.20 and in Indian River County the average is $3.09 per gallon.