Florida

Report: Florida's K-12 spending grew more slowly than most of U.S.

(The Center Square) — A recent study has found that K-12 spending in Florida had one of the lowest increases nationally between 2002 and 2020.

The Reason Foundation released the Public Education at a Crossroads study that showcases the spending habits of every state in regards to K-12 public education spending, enrollment levels, teacher salaries, and staffing - and data shows that Florida ranks 43rd in the nation.

Special Sun, 03/24/2024 - 16:21

Recreational harvest of Atlantic greater amberjack closes April 1

The recreational harvest of greater amberjack in Atlantic state waters will close on April 1 and remain closed through April 30.

Last year, the FWC Commission approved a rule to establish an April recreational spawning season closure consistent with the current commercial closure. The new rule went into effect in late 2023, following the implementation of consistent regulations for adjacent Atlantic federal waters.

Sea turtle nesting season arrives along Florida’s coasts

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing the reminder that sea turtles are starting to nest on our beaches. Residents and visitors can play a big part in helping to protect vulnerable nesting sea turtles this spring and summer while visiting Florida’s coastal habitats.

Nesting season underway for Florida’s waterbirds

With nesting season underway for shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing tips with beachgoers on how to help protect our waterbirds while enjoying the shore.

During this time of year, many shorebird and seabird species nest directly on beaches across the state where their eggs and chicks are well camouflaged in the sand. Colonies of wading birds, such as herons, will typically nest on mangrove islands off the coast.

Foreign-owned social media platforms could face new Florida restrictions

(The Center Square) — Foreign-owned social media platforms such as TikTok could face a big change in the Sunshine State if a bill currently being advanced by the Florida Senate gets signed into law.

Senate Bill 1448 is sponsored by state Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, and would add transparency for social media platforms operating in Florida that are owned by foreign adversaries.

Another retail theft group charged by AG Moody’s office

(The Center Square) – Another retail theft group has been charged by Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution, this time for allegedly stealing more than $100,000 from Home Depot stores.

Criminal charges and investigations continue as the OSP has been prioritizing retail theft in Florida. Last fall, criminal investigations uncovered millions of dollars in stolen goods and murdered suspects OSP helped prosecute.

Florida bill that would revise the state's pre-kindergarten program advances

(The Center Square) — Florida lawmakers have advanced a bill this week that would allow young students and those who teach them the tools to be successful.

State Rep. John Snyder, R-Palm City, sponsors House Bill 1353. It would revise Florida's laws on the state's pre-kindergarten programs known as early learning coalitions and other specified early learning programs.