Rep. Juan Carlos Porras (R-Miami) announced the filing of HB 983, a legislation designed to reform Florida's Homeowners Association (HOA) by enhancing enforcement, improving transparency, and empowering residents with stronger rights.

"As Florida continues to grow, it is critical that our HOA system is fair, transparent, and accessible to all residents," Porra said in a press release. "HB 983 introduces key reforms that address persistent challenges in HOA governance, ensuring that homeowners are protected from unfair practices and have a greater say in the communities they call home."

Juan Carlos Porras added HB 983 seeks to "ensure that HOAs operate accountable while providing homeowners with the necessary tools to protect their interests."

The bill would authorize local law enforcement agencies to investigate, audit, and inspect HOAs within their jurisdictions. The release noted this would provide oversight to enforce compliance under state law.

Furthermore, HB 983 would reform the recall process by adjusting voting regulations and quorum requirements, thus preventing board members from stalling or obstructing recalls.

In his statement, Porras mentioned the bill's introduction of "One Way Attorney's Fees", a provision that allows homeowners to recuperate legal costs after winning lawsuits against their HOA, which he says will decrease the financial burden on residents seeking legal recourse.

The release said HOAs have been poorly run because of financial mismanagement, fraudulent activity, lack of transparency, and obstruction of homeowner rights, thus adding more stress for residents.

On those points, HB 983 would increase transparency by requiring prospective homebuyers to receive significant HOA documentation and records before finalizing a property, which it says will guarantee the prospective homebuyer understands their obligation before purchasing.

The bill specifies it strengthens Florida Statute 720, which requires legal protections for homeowners and guarantees that HOA laws are honored.

"HB 983 will require more transparency for prospective homebuyers, grants enforcement authority to local law enforcement, and completely reforms the recall process among many other critical reforms," Porras added on X. "This bill is reflective of the momentum behind HOA reform here in Florida and I am honored to continue tackling the issue!"

If passed, HB 983 would take effect on July 1.

The post Rep. Porras Announces Filing of Bill Strengthening HOA Regulations appeared first on The Floridian.

Sen. Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach) and Rep. Hillary Cassel (R-Dania Beach) recently filed bills to show Florida's support for the Jewish State by expanding the state's existing anti-Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) law.

Tom Leek and Hillary Cassel, under SB 1678/HB 1519, would enhance the state's policy against opponents who participate in boycotts against Israel.

Florida's BDS law currently covers commercial boycotts. If passed, the legislation would also include academic institutions and non-profit organizations that participate in boycotts against the Jewish State.

In addition, the bill would ban state financial interactions with groups that boycott Israel or participate in antisemitic discrimination or behavior. The law would also apply to political subdivisions fomenting Jewish hate.

The bill would also require grant applications to comply with the state's anti-discrimination laws and attest against participation in boycotts or antisemitic behavior against Israel. It adds that violators would be subject to penalties and repayment of funds.

The bill comes after Cassel switched her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican in December over, in part, her former party's lack of support for the Jewish State.

"As a mother, I want to help build a world where our children are judged on their character and their actions not on their labels," Cassel said at the time.  "As a proud Jewish woman, I have been increasingly troubled by the Democratic Party’s failure to unequivocally support Israel and its willingness to tolerate extreme progressive voices that justify or condone acts of terrorism."

Another Florida lawmaker, Sen. Randy Fine (R-Melbourne), has been at the forefront of legislation against anti-Jewish bigotry, especially after the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

"We need to immediately expel any non-Americans who are or have advocated for Muslim terror as a first step," he told The Floridian in a text message. "We need to investigate and prosecute organizations on college campuses—includ[ing] those administrators and faculty that support them—and outside them that promote Muslim terror. 

If approved, the legislation would take effect July 1.

The post Leek, Cassel Push Strengthening Anti-BDS Law in Support of Israel appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida was listed as the best state in the country for education and the economy in 2024, according to U.S. News and World Report

The report found the Sunshine State No. 1 for Higher Education and No. 10 in Pre-K-12 Education. Florida also has a lower debt at graduation ($13,872) than the national average ($14,086) and a higher high school graduation rate (87.3) than the national average (85.9).

The state was also No. 1 in education in the report's 2023 findings.

On the economy, Florida holds a 4.8% job growth, which is 2.1% better than the national average (2.7%). The state also has a 1.7% net migration rate, much better than the 0.3% national average, and a $1.87 Venture Capital per GDP compared to the national average of $6.23.

Overall, Florida ranked No.9 of all U.S. states according to the report. The state also placed No. 13 for Crime and Corrections, No. 13 for Natural Environment, No. 20 for Fiscal Stability, No. 20 for Infrastructure, No. 26 for Health Care, and No. 45 for Opportunity.

While mostly positive, a different report found some Florida cities as having financially distressed residents.

For its report, U.S. News and World ranked all 50 U.S. states across 71 metrics across eight categories. The categories were all weighted based on the average of three years of data from national surveys asking 70,000 people total to judge the importance of each subject in their state.

Utah ranked as the best state in the country with Top 10 marks on Education (No. 2), Economy (No. 3), and Infrastructure (No. 3), and Crime and Corrections (No. 9). The state was followed by New Hampshire, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Idaho in the top 5.

On other metrics, New Hampshire ranked No. 1 for Crime and Corrections while its neighbor, Vermont, placed No. 1 for Opportunity. North Dakota ranked No. 1 for Infrastructure, Wyoming placed No. 1 for Fiscal Stability, while Hawaii finished No. 1 in both Health Care and Natural Environment.

Louisiana, New Mexico, Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia were all states in the bottom 5 of the rankings. In categories dead last, Louisiana was No. 50 in Crime and Corrections, New Mexico was N0. 50 in Education, while Mississippi was No. 50 in Health Care and the Economy.

Notably, no other state in the Southeastern United States finished anywhere near Florida's ranking. Georgia was the next closest at No. 18 followed by North Carolina at No. 19.

The post Florida Tops U.S. States in Education, Economy: Report appeared first on The Floridian.

TALLAHASSEE—Senate Democratic Leader Jason Pizzo issued a rebuttal Monday to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' State of the State Address where he bluntly laid out his concerns on the direction of the state, including its hardline focus on social issues and misteps on illegal immigration.

However, Sen.Pizzo, considered a moderate Democrat, didn't exactly come to his party's defense for its lack of offense over Gov. DeSantis' grip on the Florida GOP since he assumed office in 2019.

It also could be another signal that his run for governor is starting to gain more validity.

"No Republican, certainly no serious Democrat, sought to expand any of the policies or positions Republicans claimed were so rampant and so necessary to defeat," Pizzo said in his speech. "I have never pushed to install or even expand CRT [Critical Race Theory], ESG [Environmental, Social and Governance], DEI [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion] or wokeism. For none of these will lower your property insurance, your rent, nor will they result in your kids' GPAs getting higher, or their test scores going higher."

Sen. Pizzo expressed that the state Republican platform for years was to "be bold" by championing issues of economic opportunity, protecting Florida's environment, improving education, and defending the safety of its communities.

He instead argued that was nothing of the sort, and contended the governor's reign has had a "crippling effect" on the executive branch.

Pizzo also wondered, despite its abundance of problems, how Florida Republicans have held legislative and executive control for decades in the state while seizing on mundane issues instead of tackling its real problems.

For context, Republicans have held the governorship and legislative control in Florida since 1999. The last time Florida had a Democratic governor was Buddy MacKay, and that was for 24 days after Democratic Governor Lawton Chiles died unexpectedly in 1998.

Pizzo argued Florida's more pressing problems were "failing infrastructure, plummeting test scores, spikes in homeowners insurance and housing costs." He also mentioned the Florida National Guard being called in to fill critical staffing shortages at state prisons.

The 48-year-old is a former state prosecutor and pragmatic thinker on public safety.

"The only rankings we've held steady on during the last six years are nearing the bottom in law enforcement salaries and near the top in insurance premiums and human trafficking," Pizzo said.

Pizzo also addressed recent Republican infighting on illegal immigration, which eventually culminated in DeSantis signing a package of anti-illegal immigration measures into law earlier this month.

Pizzo argued his strong policy against illegal immigration was the rightful way to go.

"I, the Democratic minority leader, was the first to file the bill requiring E-Verify for all employers because you are not serious about curbing illegal immigration if you continue to coward to donors and not listen to our citizens," Pizzo said.

Despite his concerns, Pizzo played a bit of a political seesaw by praising DeSantis over his handling of disasters from hurricanes and other storms, including in his district in Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

"The governor has been a good executive when performing executive functions. My own district has truly benefited and appreciated disaster responses after storms, direct assistance following the tragic loss of 98 lives in my district, and the shift from legislators having to beg for dollars to bring home each session, to objective criteria applied to infrastructure project applications direct to state agencies," Pizzo said.

He also expressed optimism over Senate President Ben Albritton's and House Speaker Daniel Perez's legislative agenda for the impending term. After all, Pizzo could soon find himself competing in a state Republicans have dominated for decades, perhaps against Trump-endorsed U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds.

"Senate President Ben Albritton presented an agenda, a legislative agenda, that is robust and real to feed families, to foster economic growth, to protect our children, our homes, demand efficiencies with your tax dollars, and the right to course the years of neglect and indifference, Speaker Perez expressed much of the same," Pizzo said.

The post Jason Pizzo Gives Straightforward, Blunt Takes on DeSantis' State of the State Address appeared first on The Floridian.

The City of West Palm Beach has been named the top trending destination for travelers in America, according to a report by Tripadvisor.

"With sunny skies, nearly perfect year-round weather and a range of outdoor and cultural attractions, West Palm Beach presents the ideal setting for a weekend escape," Tripadvisor said.

West Palm Beach is located approximately an hour north of Miami. The largest city in Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is home to approximately 120,000 residents.

"Enjoy a game of golf at a number of pristine local courses or hit the beach for a day of tanning and catching up on your reading. See African chimps and endangered species like the Southern White rhinoceros wander free in a natural habitat at the Lion Country Safari," Tripadvisor continued.

Technically speaking, West Palm Beach does not have a public beach, as it's located on the mainland. Palm Beach, an island town across the bridge from West Palm Beach, has a public beach that travelers are accustomed to in Florida.

"You could spend an entire day on Peanut Island, a popular tourist attraction that houses a bunker built for President John F. Kennedy during the Cold War," Tripadvisor added.

For its findings, Tripadvisor looked at its Travelers Choice Best of the Best, which celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. Cities are awarded based on a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews from the Tripadvisor community over 12 months.

Tripadvisor also mentioned activities in West Palm Beach that do not require sunscreen or a towel.

"For those who prefer indoor endeavors, the Norton Museum boasts an exceptional collection of American, Chinese and European art. Famous performers appear at "The Harriet" and at the Kravis Center," Tripadvisor said. "Of course there's always shopping, the city's other favorite pastime. From designer boutiques to big name department stores, West Palm has it all."

West Palm Beach was followed by Santa Barbara, California; Cleveland, Ohio; Kansas City, Missouri and Memphis, Tennesee in the rankings.

The post West Palm Beach Named Top Trending Destination in America appeared first on The Floridian.

Miami Republican Sen. Alexis Calatayud recently filed a bill that would establish a Parkinson’s Disease Research Program to support innovative research and provide caregiver assistance to those with the disease.

Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and other bodily functions. Commonly viewed symptoms include tremors (involuntary shaking) in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head.

Often occurring around the age of 60, Early-onset Parkinson's disease can develop in people under 50 years old.

Parkinson's disease affects over 1 million Americans and 10 million people worldwide. Also, about 90,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States.

Actor Michael J. Fox and legendary late boxer Muhammad Ali are two well-known figures who were diagnosed with the disease. Notably, there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease.

Alexis Calaytud's bill, SB 1800, a Parkinson's Disease Research Progam would be established through the Florida Department of Health (DOH). The bill would also require DOH to create a  registry for people in the program.

Moreover, DOH would create a Parkinson's Disease Research Advisory Board consisting of the following representatives:

• Leading research institutions in the state
• Parkinson's disease advocacy organizations
• Caregiver support groups
• The medical community specializes in neurological diseases

Through SB 1800, the Florida Legislature would appropriate funds from the General Revenue Fund to the Parkinson's Disease Research Program for FY 2025-2026. Specifically, 20 million dollars would be awarded through competitive grants to state universities, research institutions, and medical centers actively involved in Parkinson's disease research.

Another five million dollars would be allocated to establish and expand programs that support caregivers of individuals living with the disease, including respite care, training, and mental health resources.

The bill says priority would be given to innovative therapies and projects trying to find a cure for the disease.

Additionally, the bill states grant recipients would be required to submit an annual report to DOH detailing the progress of funded research, outcomes and measurable impacts of caregiver support programs, and additional recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the program.

If passed, SB 1800 would take effect on Oct 1, 2025.

The post Sen. Alexis Calatayud Files Bill to Increase Parkinson's Disease Reasearch appeared first on The Floridian.

Gov. Ron DeSantis congratulated SpaceX Monday after the aerospace company announced it was bringing Starship production and launch capabilities to the Space Coast of Florida.

"Congratulations to @SpaceX on your recently announced plans to bring Starship operations to Florida," DeSantis said. "With leading space companies—now including SpaceX—investing in the Free State of Florida, NASA should scrap their expensive new HQ in D.C. and consider moving to Florida as well."

According to its release, SpaceX is building a new integration facility called Gigabay next to its HangarX location at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Merrit Island. It also plans to build a Starship launch pad at the space center this year.

Specifically, Gigabay will stand 380 feet tall and include 46.5 million cubic feet of interior process space and 815,000 square feet of workspace. SpaceX also noted that Gigabay will support Starship and Super Heavy vehicles up to 266 feet tall, provide 24 work cells for integration and refurbishment work, and have cranes capable of lifting as much as 400 tons.

Current Gigabay production is expected to be complete and operational by the end of 2026.

SpaceX is headquartered in unincorporated Starbase, Texas in Boca Chica, Cameron County,  near Brownsville. The aerospace company is in the Rio Grande Valley near the Gulf of America.

The Starship launch pad will be at Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at the Kennedy Space Center. SpaceX intends to conduct Starship's first Florida launch from LC-39A in late 2025.

"Expansion of Starship production and launch operations in Florida will enable SpaceX to significantly increase the build and flight rates for Starship, which will be the first rapidly and fully reusable launch vehicle in history," SpaceX said.

SpaceX emphasized production was being built at Kennedy Space Center as Environmental Impact Statements are worked out for potential Starship flight operations for LC-39A at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

"Access to space is a critical and growing need for U.S. national security, leadership in science, the country’s exploration goals, and for the growth of the economy. Starship will ultimately be responsible for sending millions of tons of payload to Mars – building a self-sustaining city to make humanity multiplanetary," SpaceX added.

The post Gov. Ron DeSantis Celebrates SpaceX Operations Coming to Florida appeared first on The Floridian.

Reps. Tyler Sirois (R-Merritt Island) and John Snyder (R-Stuart) recently filed a joint resolution to alter the shape of state government by eliminating the office of lieutenant governor and establishing a Cabinet-level position centered on government efficiency.

Tyler Sirois' and John Snyder's resolution, HJR 1325, would remove the constitutional provision requiring the office of lieutenant governor and, on the flip side, create a cabinet officer initiating a Commissioner of Government Efficiency.

Recently, former Florida Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez resigned to become interim president of Florida International University (FIU), leaving the lieutenant governor position open. The proposal would thus make her former position obsolete.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also announced a state-level version of Elon Musk's Department of Governmental Efficiency, or DOGE. HJR 1325 would essentially steer the idea into the framework of Florida law.

Under HJR 1325, the Commissioner of Government Efficiency would oversee auditing, investigating, and reporting on instances of fraud, waste, and abuse in the executive branch and local governments, much like Musk's plans at the federal level.

The resolution also calls to repeal the constitutional provision of the Government Efficiency Task Force. A ballot question would also be initiated asking voters to keep or eliminate the office of the commissioner of government efficiency.

Moving forward, the commissioner of government efficiency would be appointed by the legislature in 2027 and become an elected position the following year. A 2044 ballot initiative would allow voters to determine if the office should be kept or abolished in 2046.

If passed, HJR 1325 would appear on the November 2026 ballot for voter approval. Notably, amendments need 60% of voter approval to be enshrined into Florida's constitution.

The post Plan Would Abolish Lieutenant Governor, Start Efficiency Position appeared first on The Floridian.

Former Miami Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart died Monday, according to a statement released by his family. He was 70.

Lincoln Diaz-Balart had been diagnosed with cancer. His brother, U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, announced his passing on X.

"It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Lincoln Diaz-Balart. Defender of the silenced and pressed, author of the democracy requirement for the lifting of U.S. sanctions against the Cuban dictatorship, and the author of the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA)," the statement said. "Lincoln's legacy of achievements will endure for generations, and continues through the work of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) which he co-founded in 2003."

"Lincoln's profound love for the United States, and his relentless commitment to the cause of a free Cuba, guided him throughout his life and his 24 years in elected public service, including 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives," it added.

Diaz-Balart, a Republican since 1985, served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 21st Congressional District from 1993-2011. He also served in the Florida House for District 110 from 1986 to 1989 and in the Florida Senate for District 34 from 1989 to 1992.

A Cuban refugee, Diaz-Balart's start in politics came with the Florida Young Democrats and running an unsuccessful campaign for the Florida legislature with the party in 1982. His biography notes that Diaz-Balart began to identify with the Republican party under the Reagan administration.

Born in Havana in 1954, Diaz-Balart was a strong advocate for a free Cuba and the rights of Cuban exiles. His biggest career moment arguably came as the legislative author responsible for enshrining the United States' Cuban embargo policy into law instead of executive action.

NACRA, which Diaz-Balart also championed, gives immigration benefits and deportation protections to certain Nicaraguans, Cubans, Salvadorans, and Guatemalans.

His father, Rafael Díaz-Balart, served as majority leader of the Cuban House of Representatives and, in 1955, opposed amnesty to Fidel Castro, his former brother-in-law, over his involvement in the 1953 Moncada Barracks attack.

Diaz-Balart's aunt, Mirta Díaz-Balart, was married to Fidel Castro from 1948 to 1955. Fidel Castro went on to seize power in Cuba in 1959 and rule the country for decades.

According to the statement, Diaz-Balart is survived by his wife, Cristina, of 48 years, and son Daniel. He also had two other brothers, Rafael Diaz-Balart, a banker, and Jose Diaz-Balart, who works as an anchor on MSNBC.

A public memorial mass will be announced at a later date.

The post Former Miami Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart Dies at 70 appeared first on The Floridian.

As Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is erased out of Washington through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), new Florida International President (FIU) Jeanette Nuñez is vowing to continue to eradicate the practice in her new role at the school.

"That's something that's been an ongoing focus for the university even before I got here. Of course, given all that we are seeing at the federal level as well, we're going to continue to root out any instances where we are discriminating against students based on race or ethnicity," Nuñez said to The Floridan's Javier Manjarres

"We want to make sure our kids are getting a great education and when they're taking classes, whether it's calculus or engineering, that they're learning those very important concepts to be able to provide for meaningful employment post-graduation because we're also measured on that" Nunez added.

Nuñez, who was Lt. Governor of Florida until a couple ago, also praised her former boss, Gov. Ron DeSantis, for a state-based DOGE initiative to audit universities and eliminate state boards and commissions the state considers to be obsolete.

"I welcome everything the governor is talking about in terms of DOGE. I think we have a responsibility to take over the reins now at this institution. It's a massive university and they've done great things," Nunez said.

While Elon Musk's DOGE has been a topic of discussion during the first 100 days of the Trump administration, Ron DeSantis' Florida DOGE idea has seemingly been in the works for quite some time.

"We are dogeing the Florida university system and the reason is because there's been a massive increase in funding, which I've supported [that] the legislature provided," DeSantis told Manjarres. "I think it's good and I think they've done a lot of good things with it, but I also know that nationally if you go back 30 years the number one growth has been administrative staff  and I think that that's something that we need to make sure isn't getting out of hand here."

As governor, DeSantis has spearheaded efforts to remove DEI from Florida schools.

"We're the first state in the country to eliminate DEI and I think people now realize that was discriminatory and that's not the way you go about doing this stuff. So DEI offices closed at the University of Florida, but then where do those employees go?" DeSantis added. "Are they burrowing into other parts and then doing it by another name or are you eliminating it not just superficially?  What we are going to do the universities I think it's really important."

Last September, FIU was ranked in the top 50 for best public Universities in the United States. The school also placed in the top 100 for best schools overall in the country.

Founded in 1972, FIU ranked inside the top 50 for the first time in school history. The school jumped 18 spots from 2023 among public universities and 26 spots overall.

"The investments have been well utilized because you look at our results and how we've improved in rankings, how we continue to grow in our research expenditures. "The fact we are a preeminent institution, one of only four out of the state university system in our young history because we are the youngest to ever achieve it," Nuñez added. "I think we have a great story to tell, and if there's room for improvements I welcome them and I'll champion them."

The post New FIU President Jeanette Nunez Vows to Continue Effort to Stomp Out DEI, Antisemitism appeared first on The Floridian.

Speaker Pro Tempore Wyman Duggan (R-Jacksonville) filed a bill on Wednesday to protect Florida individuals against victimization over fake sexual images.

Wyman Duggan's HB 1161 would force the removal of altered sexual depictions posted on an internet website or online platform without the person's consent. It also mandates the website or internet platform to establish a policy process to remove the fake images or videos by Dec. 31, 2025, after the victim acknowledges becoming a target.

The bill also specified that the internet, website, or platform would not be criminally liable for the depiction.

HB 1161 is an extension of a bill passed in 2022 by former Democratic Leader Lauren Book. The law set criminal and civil penalties for online predators who knowingly share "deepfake" sexually explicit images without a person's consent on the internet, sometimes called "revenge porn."

“When personal and private images are stolen, bought, and sold online, we can now hold bad actors accountable,” Book said. “By recognizing the crime of ‘cyber trafficking’ and acknowledging the existence of deepfake images, we have given victims of these crimes hope that they will be heard and helped. Every single state in the country must follow Florida’s lead by updating their laws to reflect new threats in the digital age.”

If passed, HB 1161 would take effect upon becoming law.

Wyman Duggan also filed another bill to increase the statute of limitations on crimes against children. Specifically, HB 1171 would start the limitation when a law enforcement agency is notified of the crime.

If passed, HB 1171 would take effect on July 1.

The Floridian has reached out to Speaker Pro Tempore Duggan for comment on HB 1161 and 1171

The post Rep. Wyman Duggan Files Bill to Fight Against Fake Sexual Images appeared first on The Floridian.

Orlando attorney and Democratic megadonor John Morgan recently announced he was forming a new political party amidst rumors that he's running for governor of Florida.

"I am forming a new political party for those of us stuck in the middle. Our two-party system is broken due to Gerrymandering and divisive issues… both sides," Morgan said. "No labels is not an option. Everyone wants a team or tribe."

John Morgan previously stated his new party would be called the "Capitalist Party." However, a current name has not been chosen.

The 63-year-old Morgan might be best known for his Morgan and Morgan law firm "For the People" commercials on television. Florida drivers might also notice his face on billboards across the state.

In the past, Morgan helped bankroll successful ballot measures supporting medical marijuana and lifting the state's minimum wage. He also endorsed legalizing recreational marijuana in Florida last year.

Morgan said most Americans agreed on issues when not tied to a party.

"Special interests own the politicians in DC and throughout America.  We need to focus not on me… but US!! Most laws passed today benefit insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies and other monopolies. How about some laws for the people?" Morgan added.

Morgan pondered running for governor of Florida as a Democrat in 2018 but in the lead-up said he couldn't "muster the enthusiasm to run for the nomination."

Florida's next gubernatorial election will occur in 2026.

"Both parties have things I like. But what I don’t like is that everything is a blood sport. It’s all or nothing. Compromise is a dirty word and civility has been abandoned," Morgan said.

While not ruling it out, Morgan implored the next governor to clear or expunge criminal records for pot possession and legalize recreational weed "immediately." He also hoped the state would allow Floridians to grow homegrown pot and let the hemp industry "grow and prosper."

"I take a gummy every night and enjoy a few puffs every now and then," Morgan quipped.

A self-proclaimed Independent, Morgan supported President Joe Biden and was a top donor to his campaign. He also criticized Joe Biden for endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris and said he wouldn't fundraise for her during Harris' presidential run.

The post For the People? TV Attorney John Morgan Launching New Political Party appeared first on The Floridian.

Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills) filed a bill on Wednesday that would direct the Florida Department of Education to start a pilot program to implement a policy prohibiting the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices by students in school.

"This will allow us to take a closer look at phone-free school campuses, which I believe can encourage students to connect more personally with each other and their teachers and better support their academic efforts," Burgess said.

Under Danny Burgess' SB 1296, Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz Jr. and the department would coordinate with and select six districts representing two small, two medium, and two large counties that currently, or will in the 2025-2026 academic year, implement the cell phone ban policy.

In 2023, Florida passed a bill banning the use of cell phones during instructional time.

Burgess added the ban covers school grounds and students involved in school activities off school property. He also thanked former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his Foundation for Florida's Future not-for-profit for backing the legislation.

"Proud to have the support of @JebBush's @AFloridaPromise, which has noted that data shows eliminating the distraction of cell phones, not just in the classroom but on campus throughout the school day, results in better school climate and academic outcomes," Burgess said.

Following the program, the Department of Education would provide a report to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives before Dec. 1, 2026, summarizing the findings. The review would specifically recap the ban's policy effect on each district, including student achievement and behavior.

It also would overview the policy's effect on students with disabilities and English Language Learners who may use electronic devices for educational purposes. Moreover, the report would consider students who use cell phones for medical reasons or emergencies and on places like school buses before or after school.

It also said, upon review, it would include a model policy that other school districts and charter schools may adopt.

As a penalty, the report mentioned a list of student code of conduct provisions for violations of the policy, including the use of cell phones to bully, harass, or threaten other students and for occurrences of academic cheating, among others.

If passed, SB 1296 would take effect on July 1.

The post Danny Burgess Files Bill Establishing Pilot Program for Phone Free Schools appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida House Speaker Danny "Daniel" Perez on Wednesday named Rep. Michelle Salzman (R-Cantonment) to lead a new Combined Workgroup on Hemp.

"Thank you Speaker @Daniel_PerezFL for entrusting me with this critical issue," Salzman said after being appointed.

Per Danny Perez, Michelle Salzman's specific job title would be Combined Workgroup Manager.

“Florida’s hemp industry has grown rapidly, but with that growth, we’ve seen an influx of unregulated and potentially dangerous products being sold in convenience stores—often in packaging that appeals to children,” Salzman continued.

Michelle Salzman, however, said at same the time that Florida's agricultural community plays a "vital role" in the hemp industry, and emphasized it was "critical" for lawmakers to find a balance between public safety and protecting farmers.

In a letter to the House of Representatives, Danny Perez indicated that multiple bills would be filed during the legislative session on Hemp regulation. He also anticipated there would be a great deal of activity by advocates on both sides of the issue.

Perez specified the Combined Workgroup on Hemp would include members of the Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee and the Housing, Agricultural, and Tourism Subcommittee.

He added the workgroup will have 24 members, or 12 from each subcommittee. The members also will be chosen by the subcommittee’s chairs.

The workgroup will last for seven days starting on March 3.

"I’m honored to serve as the Manager of the new House Workgroup on Hemp, where I look forward to diving deeper into the issues, hearing from stakeholders, and working toward smart, effective policies," Salzman concluded.

The 2025 legislative session kicks off on March 2nd and goes till May 2

The post Rep. Michelle Salzman Named Combined Workgroup Manager on Hemp by Speaker Danny Perez appeared first on The Floridian.

Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Nikki Fried criticized U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds on Tuesday after he formally announced his Florida governor run.

“Byron Donalds is a dangerous political opportunist who should be nowhere near the governor’s mansion,” Fried said in a statement. “One of the least popular people in Tallahassee politics, Byron is best known for skipping votes, defending insurrectionists, and promoting a revisionist version of Black history that defends Jim Crow. He has little political experience and no executive experience, and is completely unqualified to run the state of Florida."

Nikki Fried also blasted Rep. Donalds' potential predecessor, Gov. Ron DeSantis, just yesterday. I guess you can say she's not pulling any punches.

Donalds, a Republican, announced his run on Fox News' Hannity last night. The 46-year-old is a three-term Congressman representing Florida's 19th District and a strong ally of President Donald Trump.

Days ago, President Donald Trump endorsed Donalds for governor. The power play also might have undercut Ron DeSantis' plans to attain Trump's endorsement for his wife Casey DeSantis, who has been mentioned as a governor candidate.

Ron DeSantis didn't exactly embrace the idea of Donalds for governor.

As for now, Donalds appears to be the clear favorite for the governor's mansion based on Trump's coveted endorsement. Trump crushed Vice President Kamala Harris in Florida by 13 points last November and has a permanent base in Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach.

Trump also pushed out DeSantis in the presidential primary before he made it to the state. DeSantis dropped out of the race before the New Hampshire primary in late January and endorsed Trump.

Other potential Republican candidates for governor include Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and former Rep. Matt Gaetz. Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo is rumored as a likely contender on the Democratic side.

But the betting favorite for now looks to be Donalds. Just don't expect Nikki Fried to put any money on it.

“Byron is only interested in power, and he won’t fix our property insurance crisis or bring down the cost of living for Floridians. He only has a shot at the nomination because Trump endorsed him, and Trump is only endorsing him because he wants a puppet in the governor’s mansion — pissing off Ron DeSantis is an added bonus," Fried added.

The primaries will take place in August 2026.

The post Fried Blasts Byron Donalds After Florida Governor Announcement appeared first on The Floridian.

Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) filed a bill on Monday to rename part of U.S. Highway 41 between S.R. 60 and U.S. 1, commonly known as Tamiami Trail, to the "Gulf of America Trail", following suit with the Trump administration's namesake of the new "Gulf of America" across the country.

"Time to Ride the GOAT! (Gulf of America Trail) What are your thoughts? Should we follow the GOAT President @POTUS @realDonalTRump and rename Tamiami Trail?" Gruters asked.

Joe Gruters, under SB 1058, would designate a section spanning Miami-Dade, Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Sarasota, Manatee, and Hillsborough Counties as the “Gulf of America Trail.”

Tamiami Trail, a portmanteau of Tampa and Miami, opened in 1928 and links both metros. The trail was the main connection between both cities until the construction of I-75 in the 1950s and 1960s.

If passed, the Florida Department of Transportation would be in charge of erecting new markers to recognize the new designation.

"Great idea @joegruters! Now it’s Longboat Key’s turn to rename Gulf of Mexico drive to Gulf of America drive. Who’s with me," Florida Congressman Greg Steube added. 

The move comes after President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14172 to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" on his first day in office. He also recognized Feb. 9, 2025, as the first-ever Gulf of America Day.

Other Florida lawmakers picked up on the name change as well.

Along with the Tamiami Trail, SB 1058 would require state agencies to update their geographic materials to reflect the name change from the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America." The bill also calls for all district school boards and charter school governing boards to adopt instructional materials and library collections that show the new “Gulf of America” designation.

Rep. Juan Carlos Porras (R-Miami) sponsored a similar legislation, HB 549, in the House.

If approved, the bill would take effect on July 1. The 2025 legislative session kicks off on March 2nd and goes till May 2.

The post Sen. Joe Gruters Files Bill to Rename Tamiami Trail to ‘Gulf of America' Trail appeared first on The Floridian.

The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) Center for Political Strategy shared its initial findings on Wednesday of a Q1 2025 Statewide General Election Poll showing property insurance costs as a major issue for Floridians.

The AIF poll found property insurance costs at the top of mind for Florida voters at 33% followed by inflation at 21% and housing costs at 11%. The three issues were the only ones to break double digits.

Specifically, the analysis found five cost concerns for state voters.

• Property and Homeowner’s Insurance
• Groceries/Food
• Rent/Mortgage
• Healthcare Costs
• Auto Insurance

Good news for Florida Republicans, the study found the GOP with a 15-point (47-22%) edge over Democrats on the economy, an eighteen-point edge (39-21%) on reducing inflation/everyday costs, an eight-point lead (41-33%) on helping the middle class, a ten-point lead (42-32%) on education, and a ten-point edge (48-38%) on protecting personal freedoms.

State Republicans also bowed well on other issues, including with a candidate for state legislature over a Democratic opponent by a 7-point margin (48-41%).

At the top, President Donald Trump continues to earn high marks with Florida voters. The study found his job performance +7 points (53-46%) with 45%  saying they “strongly approve” of his job performance.

It also maintained his strong approval with Hispanic males (55-45%) and nearly 40% of Black males.

According to the Florida Division of Elections, Republicans hold a 1.1 million voter registration margin over Democrats in the state. Independents also represent about 30% of Florida voters.

On more of a bipartisan note, the study found that 70% of Florida voters agree to protect Florida companies from frivolous lawsuits against predatory cyber security liability claims. That figure includes 80% of Republicans, 67% of Independents, and 58% of Democrats.

A plurality of voters also approve of getting rid of the business rent tax on Florida businesses by a 14-point margin (38-24%). Moreover, Republicans approve of the idea by 34 points (49-15%) while Independents side by 6 points (34-28%).

Business rent tax elimination is also supported across all income brackets (low/mid/high) by 14 to 16 points each.

The post Poll: Property Insurance Costs Remain Top Issue for Florida Voters appeared first on The Floridian.

Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) filed a proposed amendment on Tuesday that would authorize the legislature to freeze in place property taxes to homes affected by natural disasters.

The bill, SJR 1190, is designed to ease the burden on Floridians by lowering homeowners insurance premiums. It bill is implemented from SB 1192, which Blaise Ingoglia also filed on Tuesday.

"Today, I filed a proposed constitutional amendment to help lower homeowners insurance premiums across the state," Ingoglia said. "Most homes damaged in storms are older homes, built at sea level at old wind code standards."If you raise and harden your home it gets reassessed with much higher property taxes."

"My proposal: Let’s incentivize resiliency by freezing current property taxes for 20 years for those who elevate and harden their homes. Government shouldn’t be the beneficiary of home hardening. Homeowners and premium payers should," Ingolia added.

Specifically, SJR 1190 would limit property tax collection on a homestead property which includes mitigation of potential flood damage from natural disasters in the
determination of the property’s assessed value.

The bill added it would also limit the transfer of such value to a new homestead property.

SB 1192 would prohibit the assessed value of an elevated homestead property from exceeding a specified amount for 20 years when its square footage does not exceed 130 percent elevation.

Under this rule, Ingoglia mentioned Floridians get reassessed with higher property taxes. He added that most damaged homes built around sea level are older and comply to old wind code standards.

If approved by 60% of state voters, SJR 1190 would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. The bill would also approve SB 1192 on the effective date of the amendment to the State Constitution.

The post Blaise Ingoglia Files Amendment to Freeze Property Taxes Against Homes Affected by Natural Disasters appeared first on The Floridian.