Gulf Coast Dispatch Reports News

Uber and MADD unite to combat drunk driving: ridesharing proven to save lives in Florida and beyond

A joint initiative to combat drunk driving in the U.S., called "Decide to Ride" was launched by partners Uber, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and Anheuser-Busch as they address rising alcohol-impaired fatalities.

FWC approves amendment easing derelict vessel removals for local governments

At its September meeting in Duck Key, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved rule amendments creating a block grant option within the established FWC derelict vessel and public nuisance vessel removal grant program.

FloridaCommerce approves $3.2 million in emergency loans for hurricane-hit small businesses

FloridaCommerce has approved over $3.2 million in funding through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support small businesses impacted by Hurricane Debby. As of now, 82 businesses have been approved for these funds, with more applications being processed daily.

Florida TaxWatch releases economic forecast projecting trends through twenty twenty-nine

Tallahassee, Fla. – Florida TaxWatch has released its second economic commentary in a new quarterly series, titled "Florida Economic Forecast: 2023-2028 / Q2 2024." The data for these forecasts is provided through a partnership with the Regional Economic Consulting Group (REC Group), which conducts economic studies to guide business leaders and policymakers.

Governor DeSantis discusses condominium safety measures in second roundtable

PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis held another roundtable discussion with condo owners and association leaders to discuss solutions for condominium building safety and address concerns about the cost and implementation of new legislation. Last week, Governor DeSantis conducted a similar roundtable in Miami Lakes.

Florida housing market sees slight decline in closed sales and prices

Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor stated, “In August, Florida’s single-family home market was fairly calm. Closed sales declined by 1.1% year-over-year, and as has been the case for most of the year, they have tracked pretty close to last year’s totals. Year to date through August, closed sales of single-family homes are down 1.7%.”

FWC approves new electronic trip ticket requirements starting July 2025

At its September meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved changes to the marine fisheries trip ticket reporting requirements.

Winners announced for successful 2024 florida python challenge

Today, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partners celebrated a successful 2024 Florida Python Challenge™ by announcing the final results and winners of the 10-day competition. This year, 857 participants from 33 states and Canada helped support Everglades conservation by collectively removing 195 invasive Burmese pythons from South Florida as part of the competition, with the Ultimate Grand Prize winner removing a total of 20 pythons. The aim of the Florida Python Challenge™ is to increase awareness about invasive species and the threats they...

Florida Fish and Wildlife proposes changes to marine special activity license program

At its September meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed changes to improve the Marine Special Activity License (SAL) program licensing process, accommodate additional requested activities, and update provisions to several license types.

Florida classifies oceanic whitetip shark as prohibited species

At its September meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved classifying the oceanic whitetip shark as a prohibited species within Florida state waters.

Dealer associations play key role in navigating complex regulations

One might as well use cash to light fires as to ignore potential regulations, which can be extremely expensive, both directly and indirectly. Regulations yield duties that must be discharged. Failure to discharge them triggers investigations, fines, litigation, class actions, and other consequences.

FHCA announces 2025 class for executive nurse leadership academy

Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) announced the 2025 Class of the Executive Nurse Leadership Academy. The program is designed to assist nurses working in Florida’s skilled nursing centers in advancing their careers and maintaining high-quality care for elderly and disabled residents. A select group of rising nurse leaders from across the state will participate in a three-day intensive training, informative webinars, resource tools, and networking opportunities.

Attorney General recognizes deputy who relocated from California

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody is recognizing a Clay County Sheriff’s deputy who moved from California to answer the call to Be A Florida Hero. Deputy Colton Harris tells his story in the seventh installment of Attorney General Moody’s Thin Line Tribute: Sunshine Salute Series. Deputy Harris, originally from Oakland, California, highlighted the stark difference in serving in Florida versus California. In an interview, the deputy spoke about the lack of support for law enforcement in California and watching a criminal be released from jail hours after being...

FWC to host public meeting on Orange Creek Basin activities

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will host a public meeting on October 10 from 6-8 p.m. to discuss FWC activities and conditions on Orange, Lochloosa, and Newnans lakes. The meeting will also feature guest speakers from the St. Johns River Water Management District and the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department.

Florida ports highlight progress and upcoming initiatives

Special thanks were extended to all Florida port directors and seaport professionals who recently participated in the annual board meeting in Pensacola. The Port of Pensacola hosted the event, showcasing both the city's beauty and the port's benefits.

Disaster unemployment assistance available for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Debby

FloridaCommerce has announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to Florida businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted due to Hurricane Debby. This assistance is specifically for those who are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Affected individuals are encouraged to submit claims at FloridaJobs.org.

Governor DeSantis orders probe into second assassination attempt on former President Trump

Governor DeSantis issues executive order launching state investigation of second assassination attempt on President Trump

Governor signs proclamation commemorating POW/MIA recognition day in Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed the annual POW/MIA Recognition Day in Florida Proclamation. Sept. 20, 2024, is National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Carnival celebrates 30 years of year-round sailing from Port Tampa Bay

Carnival Cruise Line is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary of year-round sailing from Port Tampa Bay. The cruise operator, the first to recognize Tampa's potential as a year-round cruise homeport, will host an event aboard Carnival Paradise on September 21 to express appreciation for its long-standing relationship with Port Tampa Bay. To mark the milestone, Carnival will also make a donation to Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful.

Governor DeSantis highlights success of prepaid college savings program

ORLANDO, Fla.—Today, during National College Savings Month, Governor Ron DeSantis announced record refunds to parents through the Florida Prepaid program and encouraged all Florida families to take advantage of an affordable prepaid college plan.