Florida News That Impacts You – January 24th, 2024
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Movers in Tuesday’s legislative session included the Preventing Contaminants of Emerging Concern from Discharging Into Wastewater Facilities and Waters of the State bill which would tighten water purification standards to reduce the level of acceptable chemicals in drinking water. The Employment and Curfew of Minors bill, which would relax existing work limits for 16- and 17-year-olds in the state during the school year has now advanced for a full House vote. The Food and Hemp Products bill moved forward unanimously in its first senate committee stop. The bill would regulate hemp products under the same food and safety standards as other consumables within the state – which would effectively ban synthetic hemp and THC. The Policy Cancellations and Nonrenewals by Property Insurers bill also advanced. The proposed legislation would prevent insurance companies from dropping policy holders for at least 90 days after damage is repaired after a claim.
- Wellington held a final reading for the proposed mixed-use development which would re-zone 96 acres of the Equestrian Preserve. Public comments will continue to be heard today and tomorrow.
- Rivera Beach voters will have three referendums on their municipal ballots in the March 19th elections. Each referendum question pertains to the potential issuance of bonds to fund projects in the city. A $44 million bond is being sought by the City Council for parks, $35 million for the construction of a new police station and $25 million for the replacement of the Singer Island Fire Station. If all three were to be approved, the average property tax bill in the City would rise by approximately $300 annually until being paid off.
- Windy and warm today with a high near 80 – which is about seven degrees warmer than usual. Our weather will remain warmer than usual through the weekend.
- Gas prices rose considerably for a second consecutive day. The average price statewide for regular unleaded is now $3.16 per gallon- 8 cents higher than yesterday and 11 cents than a week ago. In Palm Beach County the average price is $3.34 per gallon, in Martin the average is $3.24 and in Indian River County the average is $3.19 per gallon.