State Investigates Abortion Petition Signatures Supporting Amendment 4 & Florida Faces Billion-Dollar Budget Crunch
September 12, 2024 — This Week's Top Stories in Florida
Welcome to this week’s edition of Floridian Today, a newsletter about all things Florida — from politics, business, real estate, and climate. Reporting from the Sunshine State, these are the most important stories you need to know. To never miss an update, subscribe here:
Here’s the latest from Florida…
State Officials Investigate Abortion Petition Signatures
Gov. DeSantis' administration has launched an unprecedented effort to scrutinize thousands of verified petitions supporting Amendment 4, a proposed measure to overturn Florida’s six-week abortion ban and protect access until viability. The Florida Department of State has requested election supervisors in multiple counties to send 36,000 petitions to Tallahassee for review as part of an investigation into allegedly fraudulent petition forms. While petition fraud cases usually involve rejected forms, this request focuses on signatures already verified by local elections officials. This unusual move has sparked concerns of political interference, as DeSantis has organized opposition to the amendment. Supporters fear the investigation could disrupt the democratic process. Law enforcement has already begun visiting signatories suspected of being victims of petition fraud to confirm the legitimacy of their signatures. A Department of State spokesperson said they have “uncovered evidence of illegal conduct with fraudulent petitions,” but critics say it’s an effort to undermine the amendment’s progress. Floridians Protecting Freedom, who led the petition drive, contracted PCI Consultants to collect signatures for $18 million, with another $750,000 spent on verifying signatures. The California-based company was involved in some of the most recent successful petition drives in Florida.
Florida Faces Billion-Dollar Budget Constraint in Years Ahead
Florida is bracing for possible budget deficits in the years ahead as a legislative panel has recently approved a three-year spending outlook warning of shortfalls in the state's future. Despite a projected $2.1 billion surplus for 2025-2026, the report by the Florida Legislature Office of Economic and Demographic Research forecasts deficits of $2.8 billion in fiscal year 2026-27 and nearly $7 billion in the 2027-28 fiscal year. The projections assume lawmakers will maintain current spending patterns and tax breaks as Florida experiences ongoing growth. This outlook comes as economic expansion is predicted to slow down as the state returns to normal, post-pandemic patterns. Federal COVID-19 stimulus funds and heightened inflation contributed to increased revenues, allowing for higher spending in education, particularly for teacher salaries, and health care. However, in combination with significant tax cuts, these factors have led to the expected shortfalls in upcoming years. Florida legislators anticipate tighter budget constraints as pandemic relief funds dwindle, but they remain optimistic that key sectors like education and healthcare will not suffer in 2025. House Appropriations Chairman Tom Leek (R-Ormond Beach) emphasized his desire to see teacher pay increases continue and Senate Appropriations Chairman Doug Broxson (R-Pensacola) cautioned that Florida stay fiscally responsible as deficits mount to reduce pressure on taxpayers. The state's budget may encounter more significant challenges in the future due to demographic shifts. As retiring baby boomers make up a larger percentage of Florida's population, they will require additional healthcare and housing services, potentially placing further strain on the state's budget by 2030.
DeSantis Urges Swift Action on Condo Reform
Governor Ron DeSantis is calling for swift legislative action to address the soaring costs and financial burdens facing condominium associations and owners in Florida. The governor proposed offering no-interest or low-interest loans to help condo owners struggling with hefty assessments and repair costs. DeSantis argued that waiting until the 2025 regular legislative session in March would be too late, urging lawmakers to act before the end of the year. As condo living is quickly becoming unaffordable in Florida, he encouraged legislators to gather feedback from constituents and propose solutions to alleviate the financial strain facing homeowners, especially seniors on fixed incomes. The governor’s urging comes more than two years after state lawmakers passed a bill that aims to enhance condo building safety and maintenance standards across the state. Senate Bill 4D requires costly inspections, updates roofing repair compliance terms, and mandates condo associations possess adequate reserve funds for building maintainence and repairs, and undergo a comprehensive structural integrity reserve study every 10 years. The legislation was a response to the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South condo in Surfside that killed 98 people. Many condo boards deferred much-needed maintenance for years, which is now resulting in condo owners facing steep assessments to comply with state law, complicating efforts for owners trying to sell their units. This is on top of soaring property insurance costs. Previously, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) ruled out calling for a special legislative session before the November election to address condo issues. In August, Redfin reported Tampa saw the highest increase in condo association HOA fees nationwide, a 17.2% year-over-year jump in median monthly dues, reaching $614.
Florida Health Agency Launches Anti-Abortion Amendment Website
The Agency for Health Care Administration is facing criticism after launching a website opposing proposed Amendment 4, which seeks to protect abortion access until viability. The website, created by the state agency, features partisan political campaign-type messaging criticizing the proposal, claiming it “threatens women’s safety.” The website uses state resources and includes the agency's seal, drawing condemnation from supporters of the amendment, Democrats, and legal experts, who argue it's an unethical and potentially illegal use of taxpayer funds for political purposes. The ACLU of Florida called the move unprecedented and likened it to propaganda. The agency defends its actions, saying the site aims to provide transparency and inform voters about the impacts of the proposed policy change. Florida Statute 104.31 expressly forbids any public employee or officer from using their “official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with an election…or coercing or influencing another person’s vote or affecting the result thereof.” Violations result in a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in prison or a fine of $1,000. The controversy adds to ongoing tensions as Governor DeSantis’ administration continues to fiercely oppose Amendment 4 and use its influence and resources to undermine passage. This includes political appointees rewriting the financial impact statement that will appear on the ballot and launching an investigation into thousands of already-verified amendment petition forms that the Department of State accuses of being fraudulent.
Lawmakers Remain Silent as Corporations Buy Thousands of Homes
As corporate investors snap up thousands of homes across Florida, state lawmakers have remained largely quiet with no meaningful regulations proposed. This comes amid increasing concern over Wall Street's growing control of the U.S. housing market. In 2023, corporate landlords owned over 117,000 homes in the state, with the majority linked to private equity-backed firms. These corporations claim they provide housing to those unable to buy, but critics argue the companies prioritize profits over maintaining properties and renters' rights. Complaints about soaring home prices, unfair eviction practices, neighborhood gentrification, and subpar property maintenance have grown. While other states have introduced legislation to curb corporate homeownership, Florida has seen minimal movement. Some U.S. lawmakers have pushed for federal regulation to reduce Wall Street's role in housing. However, the influence of special interest groups driven by powerful lobbyists has hindered progress in the Sunshine State, including political resistance and a reluctance among the Republican supermajority to intervene in the free market. Implementing a higher tax rate for corporate landlords in Florida would necessitate amending the state constitution, a challenging political endeavor that is unlikely. Despite the lack of legislative action, some experts say local efforts should be focused on creating more affordable housing to meet demand, but the increasing influence of corporate landlords could jeopardize fair competition, especially in Florida where key markets like Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa Bay remain a hotspot for investor-driven homeownership, with few protections for tenants.
Legislation to Allow Open Carry and Firearms on Campus to Return in 2025
A new fight over gun rights is brewing in Florida, with campus carry and open carry bills expected to return in the 2025 legislative session. Reacting to recent anti-semitic incidents on university students, Rep. Randy Fine (R-Melbourne Beach) pledged to reintroduce legislation that would repeal the state’s "gun-free zone" policy on college campuses. This comes alongside a federal lawsuit aiming to overturn Florida’s open-carry ban, with gun rights activists pushing for broader Second Amendment expansions. Fine, a Republican lawmaker running for state Senate, believes students should have the right to carry firearms on campuses for self-defense. Florida is one of 18 states that prohibit firearms on college campuses. Gov. DeSantis signed a permitless carry bill last year, but that legislation deliberately omitted the inclusion of campus and open carry protections. Republican legislative leadership, including Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) sided with the Florida Sheriff's Association in opposing open carry, citing law enforcement concerns. Fine has not been deterred from challenging Gov. DeSantis and GOP leaders on gun policy, demonstrating a rift within the party that will likely put him at greater odds with the governor. The four-term lawmaker endorsed former President Donald Trump over DeSantis early in the 2024 presidential race, criticizing DeSantis’ inadequate response to the rise in antisemitism. As the Florida Legislature’s only Republican Jewish lawmaker, Fine initially supported DeSantis, but the two have since exchanged in heated public debates on state spending, education policies, and Jewish concerns.
State Regulators Meet to Consider Adding New Nuclear Power
The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) held a workshop on September 5 to begin studying the feasibility of expanding “advanced” nuclear power sources in the state, including at military bases. This move follows a legislative directive included in a sweeping energy bill approved by Gov. DeSantis earlier this year, requiring the PSC to submit a report of its findings to the Florida Legislature by April 2025. The study is part of a broader trend, aligning with efforts by the Biden administration to form a working group to promote clean and reliable nuclear energy. This includes goals by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to ease permitting requirements for nuclear projects and a U.S. Army plan to evaluate using reactors to power military installations. Florida currently generates about 13% of its electricity from nuclear power, but no new plants have been built since the 1980s. Interest in nuclear power has resurfaced due to its potential to reduce carbon emissions and advances in reactor technology, which offer safer, more efficient designs.
Orlando Pauses $7.5M Homeless Shelter Plan Amid Community Backlash
The City of Orlando has paused a $7.5 million plan for a new 24/7 "open access” homeless shelter following strong backlash from residents near the proposed building on West Washington Street. The 21,000-square-foot facility would seek to address Orlando’s growing homeless crisis by providing essential services such as substance abuse treatment, job placement, and mental health counseling. Hours after the initiative was announced, city officials put an indefinite hold on the plan after receiving harsh feedback from community members in the downtown area neighborhood where the shelter would be located. Residents objected to the city’s proposal over what they say is an existing concentration of homeless services and programs in the area. If approved, the shelter would accommodate up to 250 individuals and would hold minimal entry requirements that would not require ID and could accommodate pets and partners. The site is part of the city’s broader aims to reduce homelessness by 50% and comply with a new state law effective October 1 that bans public sleeping. The proposed shelter would be funded by Accelerate Orlando, a city initiative to address homelessness and affordable housing using ARPA federal funds. The City Council will consider the lease agreement on September 9. Using data from January 2024, the homeless population in Central Florida has surged 28% year-over-year.
Florida Lottery Sales Decline Amid Inflation
Florida Lottery sales decreased during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, dropping to $9.4 billion from $9.8 billion the previous year, with a notable 6% decline in scratch-off ticket sales. Economists suggest inflation has led consumers to prioritize household necessities over lottery purchases. The decrease was $132.5 million below expectations, but marked the fourth consecutive year of sales exceeding $9 billion, thanks to large Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots. However, projections indicate sales could fall below $9 billion over the next two years. In the past year, Powerball and Mega Millions games accounted for $750.9 million and $450 million in sales, respectively. While Florida Lottery sales dipped, the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund will receive $28.2 million more than anticipated due to investment earnings and unclaimed prizes, totaling $2.4 billion for education funding.
VISIT FLORIDA Seeks Funding Boost to Market State
Florida’s tourism marketing agency, VISIT FLORIDA, is requesting increased state funding during the 2025 legislative session to promote the Sunshine State. After receiving $80 million in this year's budget, the agency aims for $100 million to further boost tourism marketing efforts. Gov. DeSantis has signaled support for increased funding, with $105 million initially proposed for the 2024 session, but lawmakers maintained the $80 million allocation from the previous fiscal year. VISIT FLORIDA operates as a public-private partnership, receiving funding from both state appropriations and private sector contributions. The agency reported 140.6 million visitors in 2023, a 2.3% increase from the previous year and 7.3% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019, demonstrating the state's growing tourism industry. The first six months of 2024 saw an estimated 74.8 million visitors to Florida, a 1.4% increase from the same period of 2023.
Floridians Undecided on Next Candidates for Governor
A majority of Floridians are undecided on potential candidates for the 2026 governor’s race once Gov. DeSantis concludes his two-term governorship, according to a new poll from Ragnar Research Group. The survey includes Republican Reps. Byron Donalds (R-Naples), Matt Gaetz (R-Niceville), and Mike Waltz (R-St. Augustine Beach), as well as Democratic state Senator Shevrin Jones (D-Miami Gardens) and U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Parkland). The poll shows 55% of Florida voters remain undecided, with Gaetz leading the field at 12%, followed by Donalds and Moskowitz at 10%, Jones at 9%, and Waltz at 5%. Several notable figures were excluded from the survey, including Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, CFO Jimmy Patronis, and First Lady Casey DeSantis, the latter showing a lead in previous polls. However, both the Governor and First Lady have downplayed the speculation about her running. Ron DeSantis said her interest in entering politics as a candidate was “zero.”
Tampa International Airport’s New $1.5B Airside D
New renderings of Tampa International Airport’s upcoming $1.5 billion Airside D terminal have been released, marking the first new terminal addition in nearly two decades. The project is designed to accommodate the region’s growing population and increasing travel demand. TPA is anticipating the need for expansion as passenger numbers are expected to grow from 25 million to 35 million by 2037. Positioned between Airside E and the air traffic control tower, Airside D aims to enhance the passenger experience with streamlined processing and convenient amenities. The terminal will feature two levels, two airline lounges, dining and retail options, and an international passenger arrival area. Though still in the early stages of design, Airside D is expected to open by 2028, with the current design phase at 15%. Officials said the renderings could evolve as the project progresses.
Time Running Out to Save Rare Nature Preserve in Pinellas County
A grassroots effort to save a 14-acre nature preserve in Pinellas County is nearing a crucial deadline. The West Klosterman Preserve near Tarpon Springs is home to a rare Florida scrub habitat and over 60 endangered native species, but could soon be the site of a new condo development. For nearly four years, WK Preservation Group, comprised of area residents, has been leading efforts to prevent the land owned by Pinellas County Schools from being sold off to a developer. The group has until September 15 to raise $1.5 million to purchase the land for the purposes of conserving it as a public park. They remain $400,000 short of this goal. The preserve's unique ecosystem and proximity to other protected habitats make it a crucial conservation target. County officials have pledged matching funds to WK Preservation Group for the land purchase and may grant additional time if the fundraising goal is not reached. Meanwhile, the group is pleading for some deep-pocketed donors to contribute.
Race for Orange-Osceola State Attorney Narrows
The race for Orange-Osceola State Attorney is now down to two candidates after Republican Seth Hyman withdrew after winning the primary two weeks ago. This leaves incumbent State Attorney Andrew Bain, an independent, running against Democrat Monique Worrell. Worrell, who was elected as state attorney in 2021, was suspended by Gov. DeSantis last year after being accused of not following state law in prosecuting criminals. The governor then appointed Andrew Bain as her replacement. Hyman won the August 20 primary with 62% of the vote but requested his name be removed from the general election ballot over concerns of splitting the anti-Worrell vote. In a statement, he said, "both Monique Worrell and Andrew Bain have access to resources that far exceed what are available to me...in order to give this community the best chance of not seeing a second term for Monique Worrell, I have decided to withdraw from the State Attorney’s race.” Hyman endorsed Bain, who has appeared alongside Gov. DeSantis at press conferences and has garnered Republican support despite having no party affiliation.
St. Pete to Spend $1M on Opioid Treatment and Recovery
The St. Petersburg City Council has approved a $1 million program to support nonprofits in the fight against the opioid epidemic. The Opioid Support Grants Program will provide grants of up to $100,000 for initiatives focused on treatment and recovery, overdose prevention, and substance use prevention and education. Priority will be given to proposals filling service gaps and supporting innovative projects not already funded. This includes respite housing, harm reduction, and peer support. The program is funded through lawsuit settlements against opioid manufacturers totaling $6 million that the city will receive over 18 years.
City Food Hall Orlando Set to Revitalize Ivanhoe Village Dining Scene
A new culinary destination is set to breathe life into Ivanhoe Village as City Food Hall Orlando prepares to open its doors by late October. The venture, led by food hall veteran Peter Rounce, will occupy the space formerly held by the now-shuttered Hall on the Yard. The reimagined venue will feature nine diverse food vendors, including popular local names like Ramen Takagi and Sushi Saint, alongside rising star EggDose. Three bars and golf simulators will complement the culinary offerings, creating a multi-faceted entertainment space.The concept aligns with a growing trend in the dining industry, with food halls experiencing a tenfold increase over the past decade.City Food Hall Orlando aims to foster community engagement while providing an accessible platform for both established and emerging culinary talents. The model offers restaurateurs a lower-cost entry point into the market, potentially yielding higher returns on investment compared to traditional brick-and-mortar establishments.
Valkyrie Doughnuts Closes Orlando Location After 8 Years
Valkyrie Doughnuts, a beloved Orlando spot for vegan treats, is closing its doors after eight years. The shop, located near UCF, announced its sudden closure on social media, citing the end of its lease and a desire to pursue new ventures. The last day of service will be September 22. Customers can still enjoy their favorite vegan square-shaped doughnuts for a few more weeks, but pre-orders and custom orders will be limited. Valkyrie’s St. Petersburg location will remain open.
Blue Man Group Returns to Orlando with New Show and Theater
After a three-year hiatus, the Blue Man Group is returning to Orlando with a brand-new show and custom theatre at ICON Park. The group performed over 6,000 shows at Universal Orlando Resort's CityWalk from 2006 to 2021 before ending their run due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new 580-seat theatre is set to open at the end of 2024, bringing jobs and economic benefits to the area.
New Fast-Food Chain Comes to Orlando, Promising A "Better Chicken Sandwich"
Chick N Max, a Kansas-based chain known for its "Better Chicken Sandwich," is expanding into Orlando. The restaurant aims to open five locations, creating around 125 jobs in the area. Chick N Max has seven locations in Kansas, Texas, and South Dakota and is also planning expansions in Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee. The company aims to establish a strong presence in Florida’s competitive chicken restaurant market and explore partnerships with colleges, gas stations, and theme parks. The menu features a wide selection of chicken sandwiches featuring a choice of almond-wood smoked pulled chicken or crispy tenders, and an array of sides like onion rings, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and 11 different sauces. The Orlando locations will be about 2,100 square feet and have indoor and outdoor seating for 60-80 customers, drive-thru service, and curbside pickup options.
Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights Return with Spine-Chilling Twists for 2024
Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled plans for its 33rd annual Halloween Horror Nights, set to terrify guests from August 30 to November 3, 2024. This year's event promises 48 nights of fear, the longest run in the event's history. The highlight of the 2024 season includes ten meticulously crafted haunted houses, several of which are based on popular horror franchises including “A Quiet Place,” “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” and “Insidious: The Further.” Five outdoor scare zones will transform the park's streets into nightmarish realms, including “Torture Faire,” showcasing gruesome medieval devices, the new "Swamp of the Undead" zone with appearances of zombies, and a "Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus" live entertainment area featuring thrilling performers. Universal Orlando is introducing new ticket options, including multi-night passes and RIP tours for those seeking an enhanced experience. Single-night tickets range from $82.99 to $122.99 depending on the date, with express passes available for an additional cost.
Disney World's Blizzard Beach to Reopen in November
Walt Disney World Resort has announced the highly anticipated reopening of its winter-themed water park, Blizzard Beach, scheduled for November 4. The popular water park, which has been closed for refurbishment, will welcome guests back to its unique blend of snowy scenery and aquatic adventures. Visitors can look forward to enjoying favorite attractions like the thrilling Summit Plummet water slide, the family-friendly Teamboat Springs, and the relaxing Cross Country Creek lazy river. The park will also feature the new Frozen-inspired Tike's Peak area for younger guests, modeled after the popular film. To celebrate the reopening, Disney is offering a special limited-time Water Parks Seasonal Pass for $79 plus tax, granting unlimited access to Typhoon Lagoon–until it closes for the season on November 3–and Blizzard Beach through May 23, 2025.
Thanks for reading this edition of Floridian Today. To never miss an update, subscribe for free:
In the meantime, if you learned something or found this read interesting, please consider sharing it to grow our community!