(The Center Square) — According to state officials, a multi-agency Florida strike force has enjoyed a strong year helping combat human smuggling, sex trafficking, illegal weapons and illicit narcotics.

More than 40 human smuggling charges were filed while $2.7 million worth of illicit drugs were seized, according to a news release from DeSantis’ office.

Gov. Ron DeSantis stated in a news release that other states dealing with the influx of illegal migrants can use Florida as a blueprint in the future.

(The Center Square) – Following a major trafficking bust in Polk County where law enforcement officers rescued victims who’d been smuggled through the southern border in Texas and ended up in Florida, farther north in the Panhandle, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of another operation targeting exploitation of minors and border-related crime.

Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Nancy Watkins and reappointed Ashley Bell Barnett, Kelly Rice, and Joel Schleicher to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Watkins represents Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, Bell Barnett represents Polk County, Rice represents Citrus, Lake, Levy and Sumter counties and Schleicher represents Charlotte and Sarasota counties. 

(The Center Square) — Florida officials predict that contributions to the state’s education system from the state lottery will decrease this fiscal year by $270 million.

Officials at the Florida Legislature's Office of Economic and Demographic Research forecast that Florida Lottery and other sources such as slot machines will transfer $3.12 billion to the various education trust funds, which includes $560 million left over from the previous fiscal year.

With the new school year right around the corner, it is time to register for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) 2023-24 School Fishing Club Program!

This annual educational program focuses on teaching youth anglers about best fishing practices to help ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

The 2023 recreational season for gray triggerfish in Gulf state and federal waters will open Aug. 1. The season is scheduled to close on Jan. 1, 2024.