Recreational regulation changes for Atlantic snowy grouper begin Feb. 25

Starting Feb. 25, the snowy grouper recreational season will close in Atlantic state waters, including all state waters of Monroe County. The modified recreational season is May 1 through June 30, with a new reduced possession limit of one fish per vessel per day.

State Senate committee advances lobbying transparency bill

(The Center Square) — Florida lawmakers have advanced legislation this week that would add transparency to lobbying in the Sunshine State.

Senate Bill 734 is sponsored by state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill. It would make various changes to ethics regulations for local governments and prohibit state and local officials from accepting or soliciting anything from a foreign country of concern.

Transit searches for ways to replace billions in federal emergency money

By Shirleen Guerra
Reporter

(The Center Square) – When Gov. Maura Healey signed the 2024-25 budget last month, the fiscal plan doubled the amount of money for the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority, increasing direct support from $127 million to $314 million.

Florida bills could expand school choice, help students with reading, math

(The Center Square) — Florida school students will have more assistance with subjects such as reading and math after the Florida House passed two new bills this week.

House Bill 1403 is sponsored by state Rep. Josie Tomkow, R-Polk City. It would increase the growth rate of the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities scholarship program from 3% to 5%, then automatically by 1% based on demand.

Florida sending National, State Guard troops to southern border

(The Center Square) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Thursday that he is ordering reinforcements from the Sunshine State to the southern border.

During a news conference Thursday, DeSantis said Florida will be fortifying its presence along the southern border by providing a battalion of the Florida National Guard, as well as a deployment of the Florida State Guard, the first time this organization has been used outside the Sunshine State.