FloridaCommerce has reported significant job growth in the Miami metro area for September 2024, marking the region as a leader in private sector employment gains across all metro areas. The area saw an increase of 25,800 jobs, representing a 2.2% rise over the past year. The sectors contributing most to this growth include construction with 6,400 new jobs, leisure and hospitality with 6,300 jobs, and professional and business services with 5,300 jobs.
Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the designation of Eau Gallie Arts District in Melbourne, Brevard County, as the Florida Main Street Program of the Month for October 2024. This recognition highlights the district's efforts in historic preservation and creative innovation.
FloridaCommerce has released employment data for the Tampa metro area, highlighting significant job gains in September 2024. The region saw increases in education and health services (+9,000 jobs), manufacturing (+1,400 jobs), and financial activities (+1,200 jobs). Over the year, private sector employment rose by 23,300 jobs or 1.7%, making Tampa second among all metro areas for private sector job growth.
Governor Ron DeSantis has announced three appointments to the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County. Todd Panzer will serve as Chair, while Lola Gonzalez and Brittney Morley have also been appointed to the coalition.
The Florida Department of Education has announced the allocation of $62 million through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program. This funding aims to create or expand workforce development programs throughout the state, providing students with practical educational experiences in fields such as aerospace, biomedical science, digital video technology, and aviation.
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced appointments to the Rare Disease Advisory Council. Alexis Bakofsky, Colleen Bartlett, and Blake Shay have been appointed, while Jon Hawayek and Melissa Jordan have been reappointed.
Florida's unemployment rate has remained below the national average for 47 consecutive months, according to FloridaCommerce. The state's unemployment rate stands at 3.3%, with an addition of 175,600 private sector jobs over the past year.
FloridaCommerce has reported that the Jacksonville metro area leads in job growth within the education and health services sectors among all metropolitan areas. This sector saw a 4.7% increase, adding 5,900 jobs over the year. The region's private sector employment rose by 1.9%, equivalent to 13,300 new positions as of September 2024.
FloridaCommerce has reported a significant increase in private sector employment in the West Palm Beach metro area. The region saw an addition of 11,100 jobs, marking a 1.8% growth over the past year as of September 2024. The education and health services sector led this growth by adding 4,000 jobs.
The IRS has launched new features in the Energy Credits Online (ECO) portal. These include enhanced capabilities for processing returns and cancellations, as well as a secure two-way messaging tool for communication with the IRS.
Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis visited Tampa Bay to announce the allocation of $1 million through the Florida Disaster Fund. These funds will aid Hope Florida partners in assisting Floridians recovering from recent storms. The financial support is designated for nonprofit organizations providing essential services such as meals, immediate disaster relief for mothers and children, and assistance for foster children, families, individuals with unique abilities, and seniors.
Attorney General Ashley Moody has acknowledged the efforts of Tampa Police Department's frontline officers during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. At a roll call event on Wednesday, Moody presented the officers with a Thin Line Tribute, recognizing their dedication to maintaining safety in Tampa amid challenging conditions.
The stone crab harvest season commenced on October 15 and will continue until May 1, closing the following day. The minimum size limit for stone crab claws is set at 2 7/8 inches.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—In the wake of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, Attorney General Ashley Moody has issued guidance to Floridians on how to avoid potential scams related to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Scammers may pose as FEMA representatives, seeking sensitive information or money in exchange for services. They might also use personal information to fraudulently apply for a FEMA grant.
FloridaCommerce has announced the availability of Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for individuals affected by Hurricane Milton. This assistance is aimed at those whose employment or self-employment was disrupted due to the hurricane and who do not qualify for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Impacted Floridians are encouraged to file a claim through FloridaJobs.org.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed strong support for recent legislation aimed at reducing the sales tax on commercial leases in Florida.