Florida State News and Info Tracker

Florida continues to experience robust growth and development, with several major headlines dominating the news landscape. The state legislature is currently in session, tackling issues ranging from infrastructure improvements to education reform. A significant development is the opening of the new southbound span of the Howard Frankland Bridge along Interstate 275 South, which now includes a 12-foot wide pedestrian path for walkers and cyclists[5].

In state politics, lawmakers are considering a controversial bill to reduce the age to purchase long guns from 21 to 18[5]. The legislature is also debating changes to community college naming conventions, with Hillsborough Community College potentially...

Florida continues to experience economic growth and population influx, though at a more moderate pace compared to recent years. The state's GDP is projected to grow 2.5-3% in 2025, outpacing national trends[3]. However, employment growth is expected to slow, particularly in tourism and housing-related sectors[8].

In state politics, the 2025 legislative session began on March 4th with a notably different tone than previous years. There are fewer divisive social issues on the agenda, according to Democratic State Senator Rosalind Osgood[17]. However, immigration remains a contentious topic, with Governor Ron DeSantis signing sweeping anti-immigrant legislation in February that diverts nearly $300 million...

Florida continues to face a range of challenges and opportunities as it enters the spring of 2025. The state legislature has been busy tackling issues from government efficiency to environmental protection. A new bill aimed at banning weather modification activities has gained traction, reflecting concerns about extreme weather events[9]. Meanwhile, lawmakers are pushing back against Governor Ron DeSantis' power, seeking to curtail his authority in areas such as immigration and spending[2].

On the economic front, Florida's growth is moderating but still outpacing the national average. The state's population is expected to grow by 1.7% in 2025, reaching about 23.75 million[13]. This growth...

Florida continues to see significant economic growth and population expansion in 2025, though not without challenges. The state legislature recently passed a controversial immigration reform bill, tightening restrictions on undocumented workers and increasing cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. This move has drawn both praise and criticism from various stakeholders across the state.

In economic news, Florida's housing market is showing signs of stabilization after years of rapid price increases. The Florida Realtors association reports a 31% year-over-year increase in single-family home listings, potentially easing affordability concerns for many residents. Meanwhile, the state remains a top destination...

Florida's legislative session is in full swing, with lawmakers advancing several controversial bills. The Senate approved legislation to repeal a law shielding information about university presidential candidates from public disclosure, aiming to increase transparency in higher education searches[8]. Meanwhile, a House panel approved a bill that would prevent public school officials from considering a book's "potential literary, artistic, political, or scientific value" when it's challenged for being "harmful to minors," potentially leading to more book removals[8].

In economic news, Florida continues to outpace national growth trends. The Florida Chamber of Commerce projects the state's GDP to grow by 2.5...

Florida's legislative session is in full swing, with lawmakers considering a range of bills addressing issues from affordable housing to term limits for elected officials. The Senate Ethics and Elections Committee recently approved a proposal to put eight-year term limits for county commissioners and school board members in the state constitution, sparking debate over local governance (WLRN). Meanwhile, the state's economy continues to show strength, with Florida TaxWatch projecting GDP growth of 3% by 2030, outpacing national averages (Business Observer FL).

In education news, the University of Florida men's basketball team secured the #1 seed in the NCAA tournament's West region...

Florida's legislative session kicked off this week with a notably different tone compared to recent years. Democratic State Senator Rosalind Osgood observed fewer divisive social issues on the agenda, signaling a potential shift in priorities[10]. The state's economy continues to outpace national growth, with GDP projected to increase by 2.5-3% in 2025, according to Comerica Bank's economic outlook[11]. However, challenges remain, including a cooling housing market and potential labor shortages in key industries like agriculture and hospitality.

Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced his "Focus on Fiscal Responsibility" budget for 2025-2026, totaling $115.6 billion with $14.6 billion in reserves. The proposal aims...

Florida continues to experience robust economic growth and population expansion in 2025, though some indicators suggest a moderation compared to recent years. The state legislature recently passed a $115.6 billion budget for fiscal year 2025-2026, emphasizing fiscal responsibility while still investing in key areas like education and environmental protection[1]. Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the state's commitment to keeping government spending low while balancing investments in workforce education, family-first tax relief, and infrastructure improvements.

In economic news, Florida's GDP is projected to grow between 2.5% and 3% in 2025, outpacing the national average[11]. The state remains a leader in attracting businesses, with 503 net new...

Florida continues to experience economic growth and population expansion, though at a more moderate pace compared to recent years. The state's GDP is projected to grow between 2.5% and 3.0% in 2025, outpacing the national average according to the Florida Chamber of Commerce's 2025 Economic Forecast[3][8]. This growth is supported by ongoing migration, particularly of high-net-worth individuals from the Northeast, fueling personal income growth and consumer spending[8].

In state politics, the Republican-controlled legislature is advancing bills aimed at showing support for President Donald Trump's administration[2][11]. Notable legislation includes proposals to block municipalities from adding fluoride to public water supplies, allow open carry...

Florida continues to see economic growth and population expansion in 2025, though at a more moderate pace than recent years. The state's real GDP is projected to grow by 3% this year, outpacing the national average of 2.4% according to Florida TaxWatch. However, challenges remain around housing affordability and insurance costs.

In Tallahassee, lawmakers are debating several high-profile bills as the 2025 legislative session enters its second week. A measure to join the Southern Rail Commission, which could expand passenger rail service, is advancing. Controversial changes to petition gathering rules for ballot initiatives are also under consideration. Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled his $115.6...