Florida's Latest News

Florida "blue envelope" bill prompts South Florida police training for autism-related traffic stops

South Florida law enforcement agencies are preparing for changes to how officers conduct traffic stops involving drivers on the autism spectrum, as a new "blue envelope" bill moves closer to becoming law.

The legislation, which is awaiting the Gov. Ron DeSantis' signature, aims to reduce misunderstandings and improve safety during roadside interactions. Even before it is officially enacted, departments across the region have already begun training officers on how to better communicate with individuals with autism.

About 40 officers from 18 agencies recently gathered in Bal Harbour for one of the first training sessions tied to the bill. The session was led in part by people who live with autism, offering firsthand insight into communication challenges and behavioral differences officers may encounter.

"It's going good," said Christopher Gonzalez, who helped lead the session alongside Drew Lorman. Both advocates worked directly with officers to share real-world perspectives and strategies for more effective interactions.

Florida utility companies preparing for hurricane season

Power companies and cooperatives in Florida continue to brace facilities and engage in mock storm training events in preparation for hurricane season, despite some forecasts of a “below normal” period with relatively few storms.

Officials from most of the electric providers in the state briefly outlined general efforts on Monday to clear vegetation from thousands of miles of power lines, engage in required pole inspections, firm up mutual aid contracts, and fine-tune communication.

“The investments we are making in our grid are making a difference, not only for storms but on a day-to-day basis,” Florida Power & Light Vice President of Distribution Andy Pankratz told members of the Florida Public Service Commission. “The reliability investments we are making, customers are definitely seeing the benefit.”

Hurricane season traditionally starts June 1 and lasts through Nov. 30 each year.

The pre-storm plans have been on the books for decades, refined as more lessons are learned after hurricanes slam the state. There was no discussion on costs.

Florida's rural hospitals can begin applying for $209 million in federal grants

Florida's rural hospitals will see an infusion of $209 million in federal money after the Joint Legislative Budget Commission approved a request Friday from the state's health care agency to authorize the funds.

The move transfers money from the Medical Care Trust Fund to support the Florida Rural Health Transformation Program.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Dec. 29 announced the amounts of money that each state will receive through the Rural Health Transformation Program, which was part of a tax package that President Donald Trump signed in July.

The program, which will be directed by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, will provide funds through the state’s Medicaid program to expand access to care, help workforce retention and boost technological innovation, including remote care and emerging delivery models.

Police union ‘proud to endorse’ Terrance Freeman in HD 12

Jacksonville’s local police union is backing City Councilman Terrance Freeman as he runs to replace term-limited Rep. Wyman Duggan in House District 12.

“Terrance Freeman has always stood with the men and women who put on the badge and serve our communities every day,” said Randy Reaves, President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5-30.

“He understands that public safety starts with supporting law enforcement, ensuring first responders have the resources they need, and standing up for the rule of law. The Fraternal Order of Police is proud to endorse him for State Representative because we know he will continue fighting for safer neighborhoods and the officers who protect them,” Reaves added.

Freeman said the endorsement means a lot to him.