Florida's recap – Highlights from around the state – December 6th
Bottom Line: Your daily recap of the some of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida.
- Broward County is set to adopt a needle-exchange program modeled off Miami-Dade's successful effort. During the 2019 state session Florida sanctioned the pilot program for use statewide.
- Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin Thibault announced a $60 million two-year plan to paint bright markings on the pavement on both sides of all railway crossings across the state. This after a national study by the American Railroad Association found Brightline to be the deadliest railroad in the country. The state’s research suggests this will reduce vehicles stopped on or near tracks by 15%.
- Florida’s Office of Public Counsel, which has been legally challenging the decision by the Florida Public Service Commission to allow for utility companies to surcharge customers as they underground powerlines, will have their challenge heard by an administration law judge this month. The current rules would allow utility companies in Florida to automatically pass along costs of undergrounding to customers as costs are incurred.
- As part of a $173 million expansion plan in Florida, WalMart announced they’re hiring 200 new full-time employees for its grocery distribution center in Cocoa Beach. The facility currents employees 400 people. Compensation will start at $16.40 per hour with full benefits.