Florida's Latest News

Extreme cold drives Florida’s power demand

As communities across Florida endured a record-breaking influx of cold air, utilities across the state were busy not only trying to ensure power went uninterrupted but also warning customers to conserve electricity.

Utilities said the outreach was aimed at preventing potential strain on the electrical grid, especially during periods of maximum use.

“With colder temperatures around the state, electricity use is higher than usual across Florida. To help ease the strain on the electric grid, we’re asking our members to conserve energy at home or at work on Monday, February 2, between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Small actions can go a long way - try adjusting your thermostat or holding off on using large appliances during this time,” one of several utility groups told customers.

Overnight temperatures plunged 20 to 30 degrees below typical values, with air readings reported in the teens across parts of the Florida Panhandle, while the mercury fell into the 40s in the Florida Keys.

Senate leadership delays release of budget proposal until Feb. 12

The Senate has delayed any plans to release a budget proposal until next week following delays in the House.

Senate Appropriations Chair Ed Hooper announced that a budget proposal will be released next week from the upper chamber.

“Traditionally, the chambers introduce budgets the same week. It is important for us to keep that tradition and roll out the same week as our partners in the House,” Hooper posted on X. “As such, we have updated our schedule to roll out our budget in the committees on Thursday, the 12th, instead of this week.”

The move occurred as the House and Senate attempt to get in closer alignment about the total amount of resources available, a figure that remains in flux.

But Rep. Lawrence McClure, the House Budget Chair, signaled some tension between the bodies.

Nick DiCeglie proposal to allow Florida to accept stablecoins as payment clears first Senate Committee

A proposal by St. Petersburg Republican Sen. Nick DiCeglie to allow certain state fees to be paid using stablecoins cleared its first Senate Committee.

If approved, SB 1568 would establish a Florida Stablecoin Pilot Program within the Department of Financial Services (DFS). The pilot would allow applicants and licensees to voluntarily pay certain Department-administered licensing, registration, application and renewal fees using approved payment stablecoins that are fully backed by at least $1 billion in reserve assets and redeemable for U.S. dollars.

The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee advanced SB 1568 unanimously after adopting a substitute amendment with a 10-0 vote. DiCeglie told Committee members the bill aims to update how government fees are collected without weakening existing financial or consumer safeguards.

Sheriffs back Jake Johansson for SD 8

Republican candidate Jake Johansson has earned endorsements from both Sheriffs representing Brevard- and Volusia-based Senate District 8.

“Jake is one of the hardest working individuals I’ve ever come across. Public safety is one of his top priorities,” said Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey added, “He’s already demonstrated his service to our country. Now he’s going to go to Tallahassee and work for his citizens, also work for his public safety teams — law enforcement and firefighters. And that’s what we need. We need someone up there that’s not only proven he can get the job done, but someone who’s going to look out for your safety.”

Johansson, a retired U.S. Navy Captain, spent 35 years in the military before shifting to local government, including stints as Port Orange City Manager and as a member of the Volusia County Council.