Florida

(The Center Square) — A recent report from the Tax Foundation shows how sales tax and local taxes across the United States vary from state to state with Florida sitting in the middle of the pack.

The report found 45 states and the District of Columbia collect statewide sales tax. Some local sales taxes, which are collected in 38 states, are often larger than the state rate. 

Florida has a combined sales and local tax ranking of 23rd with the state sales tax rate at 6% and local sales tax averaging about 1.02%, which is capped at 2% under state law.

By Andrew Powell | The Center Square contributor

(The Center Square) — According to the official in charge of Florida’s medical marijuana program, the number of active patients has increased 71% over the past two years.

Christopher Kimball, the Director of the Office of Medical Marijuana Use, provided statistics to the Florida House Healthcare Regulation Subcommittee Tallahassee Wednesday as they discussed the medical marijuana industry in the Sunshine State.

By Tom Gantert | The Center Square

(The Center Square) - Amtrak saw a big increase in ridership in fiscal year 2022 but is still at 72% of its peak pre-pandemic levels, according to data the transit company released.

The National Railroad Passenger Corporation – Amtrak's official name – is still not close to full recovery in ticket sales and food and beverage revenue.

By Andrew Powell | The Center Square contributor

(The Center Square) – Changes could be coming to Florida’s abortion laws after the incoming senate president, Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, said she would like to see Florida’s abortion ban go from 15 weeks’ gestation to 12 weeks’ gestation.

By Bethany Blankley | The Center Square contributor

(The Center Square) – Despite Gov. Gavin Newsom’s invitation to Floridians to move to California ahead of the November election, California businesses continue to leave, and increasingly to Florida.

OCALA, Fla. (Oct. 27, 2022) — The College of Central Florida has received a grant to fund the design and installation of a new piece of art at one of its campus locations. All artists are welcome to submit proposals for consideration.

On Tuesday, the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (District) Governing Board adopted a $211.7 million budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023, including approximately $90.6 million for the Cooperative Funding Initiative and District grants for water resources projects.

OCALA, Fla. (Aug. 29, 2022) — The College of Central Florida District Board of Trustees has three new and one continuing member, appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

“We welcome our new board members and appreciate the service of our returning board member – all who have demonstrated commitment to our community,” said Dr. Jim Henningsen, CF president. “They have broad experience in workforce, health care, finance and more, and we look forward to their leadership in impacting our college, students and community.”