Capitol watchers were given a glimpse this week of the next chapter in the showdown between the governor and Cabinet members over department-head appointments. Aides to Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, Attorney…
Tag: Florida
Viewpoint: The ‘They changed the formula’ education excuse
By Jac Wilder VerSteeg, Context Florida Florida’s national ranking by Education Week has dropped precipitously, to No. 28. In 2013, Florida was ranked No. 6. When Florida’s public education system rose to…
Florida will have $336 million surplus next year
State lawmakers will have about $336 million extra in the budget year that begins next July, according to a draft state report issued late Wednesday. The Long-Range Financial Outlook, an annual report,…
Unemployment rate holds steady in Florida
By JIM TURNER THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA Florida’s jobless mark continued its steady run through 2014, holding at 6.2 percent from June to July, the state Department of Economic Opportunity announced…
Net worth up for most Florida lawmakers
By JIM TURNER THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA For most state lawmakers, 2013 was another good year financially, regardless of party. Still, those with an “R” affixed to their names are doing…
State drops voter purge
By Dara Kam, The News Service of Florida In an election-year turnaround, Gov. Rick Scott’s administration is dropping a problematic voter purge aimed at keeping non-U.S. citizens from casting ballots. In the…
Uh, one more gun bill. This time it involves schools and NRA. What could go wrong?
By Margie Menzek, The News Service of Florida A bill backed by the National Rifle Association that lawmakers said would add “common sense” to zero-tolerance policies for guns in public schools sailed…
Yes, sir. Florida Legislature has another gun bill
By Jim Turner, The News Service of Florida Insurance companies could face tougher penalties if they impose higher rates, refuse to issue or cancel auto or homeowner policies due to gun ownership,…
State Capital briefs, Feb. 5
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES TAX CUT BACKED As Gov. Rick Scott and legislative leaders look to cut $500 million in taxes and fees this year, a Senate panel Tuesday approved a plan that would…
Gaetz: Land amendment shifts to much control to state
By Jim Turner, The News Service of Florida Florida voters will get to decide in November if funding for land conservation should be cemented into the state Constitution. But don’t expect top…
The week ahead at the state capital
ADVANCES: WEEK OF JANUARY 26, 2014 Gov. Rick Scott has held a series of appearances across the state to tout pieces of his proposed 2014-15 state budget. As might be expected, the…
Board of Governors establishes performance standards for universities that will impact funding
The Florida Board of Governors has developed a performance funding model that will reward university excellence and improvement and maximize the return on investment for Florida students, according to press release from…