Florida Braces for Hurricane Helene & Fighting the NRA to Uphold State's Ban on Rifle Sales to Those Under 21
Florida Braces for Hurricane Helene & Fighting the NRA to Uphold State's Ban on Rifle Sales to Those Under 21
September 26, 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…
Florida Braces for Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene rapidly strengthened in the Caribbean Sea on Wednesday, becoming a Category 1 storm and moving northward along Mexico's coast. The U.S. National Hurricane Center predicts Helene will intensify further as it crosses the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, likely becoming a major Category 4 hurricane with winds exceeding 130 mph by Thursday. The National Hurricane Center projects landfall late Thursday somewhere along the eastern Panhandle – possibly the Big Bend area – bringing devastating gusts and storm surge. However, forecasters warn that winds might be even stronger as the system moves closer to land. A tropical storm warning has been issued for the entire state except for the eastern Panhandle which remains under a hurricane warning. Coastal areas face the threat of hurricane-force gusts, while inland regions should prepare for tropical storm-force winds. This has prompted widespread evacuations, school closures, and emergency declarations in Florida and Georgia. Hurricane warnings have been issued for parts of Florida's northwestern coast and life-threatening storm surge is expected along the state’s entire west coast, with coastal areas near the Big Bend reaching up to 20 feet. The storm's massive size has placed areas as far north as southern Georgia under hurricane warnings, with heavy rainfall beginning Wednesday across the southeastern U.S. Possible tornadoes could develop in western Florida through Thursday and rainfall could total 8 to 12 inches in the Panhandle, with possibly 2 feet of rain in some places. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for forty-one counties and numerous counties along the west coast are under mandatory emergency evacuations. President Joe Biden President also approved a federal emergency declaration on Tuesday, mobilizing federal resources to assist in preparation and local response efforts.
Tampa Bay Region Prepares for Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene moves northward and approaches the Tampa Bay region, local authorities are ramping up preparations to mitigate potential flooding and protect residents. Across multiple counties, crews are working tirelessly to clear stormwater drains, ditches, and other infrastructure to enhance flood prevention. Mandatory evacuations are underway in Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, and Pinellas counties, with shelters opening Wednesday. Less than 24 hours before the arrival of tropical storm-force winds, Tampa stormwater workers removed debris, Clearwater Beach lifeguards secured equipment, and Duke Energy deployed its mobile command center. The electric company has 8,000 workers staged strategically across the state to respond to Helene, while TECO and Florida Power & Light have deployed thousands of lineworkers to support post-storm restoration efforts. Sarasota County was working to address known flooding hotspots and ensure the functionality of key pump stations after historical flooding following Hurricane Debby last month. Manatee County took proactive measures by completing maintenance on the Lake Manatee Dam and ensuring all three mechanical gates were operational and water levels lowered. Despite being outside of the National Hurricane Center’s “cone of uncertainty,” the massive scale of the storm, which has a wind radius in the 90th percentile, poses significant risks to the Tampa Bay area, including the possibility of up to 10 feet of storm surge. Many Central Florida schools, government offices, and public facilities outside of designated emergency shelters will remain closed on Thursday. Tampa International Airport will close to the public and suspend all operations beginning at 2 AM on Thursday. Similarly, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport will temporarily shutter after the last flight arrives on Wednesday, which is scheduled for 10:42 PM. Both airports plan to reopen on Friday, following a damage assessment and pending storm conditions. Orlando International Airport took necessary storm precautions to remain open and operational as Hurricane Helene passes along Florida’s west coast, but delays or cancellations are expected.
Florida Fights NRA to Uphold Ban on Rifle Sales to Those Under 21
Florida is fighting to preserve a 2018 law that prohibits individuals under 21 from buying rifles and other long guns. The law, enacted after the Parkland school shooting, is being challenged by the National Rifle Association (NRA), which claims it infringes upon Second Amendment rights. Before a federal appeals court, state attorneys argue the restriction aligns with historical traditions of firearm regulation and is consistent with founding-era practices, citing historical limitations on minors' ability to purchase firearms. They further contend that the law allows possession and use of guns by those under 21, just not their purchase. The NRA counters that the purchasing ban infringes on young adults' Second Amendment right to acquire firearms and asserts that the restriction doesn't align with a 2022 Supreme Court ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. In that landmark decision, the Court held that individuals have a constitutional right to carry a firearm for self-defense outside the home without needing to demonstrate “proper cause.” A U.S. District Court previously upheld the state law’s age restriction, and a three-judge panel on the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed. However, the NRA requested the full appeals court to hear the case. The case has garnered national attention, with groups advocating for stricter gun laws and states with similar age-based restrictions filing friend-of-the-court briefs. The Biden administration has also weighed in, supporting the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Rahimi (2024) as justification for the federal law that prohibits handgun sales to individuals under 21.
Airports in Florida to Impose Landing Fees, Sparking Concerns
Several Florida airports are planning to implement new landing fees starting October 1, 2024, sparking concern among pilots and aviation organizations. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) warns that these fees could significantly impact flight training and local aviation businesses. The proposed fees, approximately $3 per 1,000 pounds for fixed-wing aircraft, would be collected using automated systems leveraging ADS-B data. This use of mandated safety equipment for fee collection has raised objections from AOPA, which is considering legislative action to prevent such practices. Airport officials claim the fees are necessary to manage traffic and protect against overcrowding from neighboring airports. Orlando Executive, Kissimmee, Flagler, DeLand, and Ormond Beach airports are considering the landing fees. However, AOPA argues that these public-use airports already operate with minimal taxpayer expense and receive substantial federal funding. Imposing fees at publicly funded airports may also violate federal grant assurances, AOPA contends. Aviation experts say the action could hurt Florida’s flight training industry.
GOP’s Voter Registration Advantage
Florida's political landscape has shifted dramatically, with Republicans holding a substantial lead over Democrats in voter registration. According to recent data from the state Division of Elections, as of August 31, 2024, the Republican Party of Florida boasts 5,385,554 active registered voters, outpacing the Florida Democratic Party by over 1 million voters. The Democratic Party, once the dominant force in Florida politics, now counts 4,359,354 active registered voters. This reversal marks a significant change from just a few years ago when Democrats held the registration advantage. Notably, a large portion of Florida's electorate – 3,544,576 voters – remains unaffiliated with either major party. While the GOP touts this milestone, Democrats argue the figures are misleading, as they exclude "inactive" voters who are still eligible to vote. Nevertheless, the GOP's growing registration edge reflects Florida's increasing lean toward conservative politics in recent years.
Florida’s Water Supply Crisis
Florida faces an imminent water supply crisis, with potential shortages looming as early as next year, according to a recent report by Florida TaxWatch. The state's rapid population growth and development are straining water resources, necessitating significant investment in infrastructure. The Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) estimates that at least $1.7 billion is needed for critical water projects through 2040 to ensure a steady freshwater supply. This figure excludes costs for Everglades restoration and certain stormwater and wastewater management projects. The findings analyzed by TaxWatch are reported in EDR's 2024 Annual Assessment of Florida's Water Resources: Supply and Demand, published earlier this summer. The EDR highlighted that while agricultural water demand is expected to rise slightly, public supply, including residential and industrial uses, will account for most of the growth.
Farmers vs. Fair Wages for Migrant Workers
Florida farmers are grappling with rising labor costs as the minimum wage for migrant farmworkers, set by the federal H-2A visa program, reaches $14.77 per hour. This rate, which has increased 26% over the past four years, is higher than the state's minimum wage of $12. Farmers express concern over shrinking profit margins, with labor costs consuming up to two-thirds of their expenses. With more than 51,000 H-2A workers, Florida leads the U.S. in migrant labor and some fear that continued wage increases for these workers could lead to a decline in U.S. agricultural production. Farmers are also responsible for covering the foreign laborers’ housing and entry into the country for the largely seasonal work. Senator Rick Scott, along with 15 other senators, has called for a freeze on H-2A minimum wages to be able to compete globally and ensure the economic viability of farms. However, farmworker advocates argue that the current rate is still insufficient given the demanding nature of the work.
New College of Florida Faces Funding Scrutiny
Sarasota’s New College of Florida, which was the target of a conservative makeover by Gov. DeSantis to transform the school from its progressive roots, is being met with resistance from the State University System's Board of Governors over its $200-million, five-year plan. Board members expressed concern over the school's high per-student operating costs, estimated at $91,000 for the 2024-25 academic year - nearly nine times the state average. While New College President Richard Corcoran disputes this figure, claiming the actual cost is around $68,000 per student, he defended the request, citing long-overdue capital improvements and plans to increase enrollment to 1,200 students by 2028. The college's athletic ambitions have also raised eyebrows, with a proposal to add 24 sports teams and request $100 million for new facilities, to be funded by athletic revenues and private donations. The school aims to have one-third of students participating in sports by 2028. At least one board member questioned the wisdom of investing heavily in a small student population that already costs substantially more than other state universities. New College had a student enrollment of 731 in 2023. A final decision on the funding request is still pending.
Brain Drain: 40% of Professors Looking to Leave State, Citing Academic Freedom Concerns
A recent survey indicates that a significant number of Florida university faculty are considering leaving the state, with nearly 40% having applied for jobs elsewhere and 44% planning to do so. Conducted by the American Association of University Professors and the United Faculty of Florida, the survey highlights concerns over Florida's political climate and its impact on academic freedom and post-tenure review policies. The state’s stance toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies was also cited by half of Florida faculty who have applied out-of-state. Additionally, 90% of Florida faculty said recruiting new talent has become harder, with many noting that applicants are rejecting Florida universities. The survey, which included responses from over 3,000 faculty across 12 Southern states, reveals that Florida has the second highest rate of faculty looking for new opportunities, after Louisiana. State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues dismissed the survey as unreflective of “actual data,” emphasizing Florida's commitment to student success and investment in faculty recruitment. The fears expressed by faculty over academic restrictions and political interference are raising concerns about a negative, lasting impact on the quality of higher education in the state.
Female Entrepreneurs in Florida Outearn Men in Unconventional Industries
Women are breaking traditional barriers in Florida, outpacing earnings for their male counterparts in surprising industries, per a recent report from AI-driven market research company Osum. While the report identifies real estate, home services, and beauty salons as the most popular businesses for female entrepreneurs in the Sunshine State, women are making significant financial strides in less conventional industries. Notably, female business owners in the construction, manufacturing, and technology sectors are showing higher average earnings compared to male-owned enterprises in the same fields. Experts suggest that factors such as increased access to education, mentorship programs, and changing societal attitudes may contribute to this shift in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Florida’s Coral Reefs Recovering After Last Year’s Bleaching
Florida's coral reefs are showing signs of recovery a year after experiencing the worst bleaching event on record. Scientists report minimal bleaching this summer, despite elevated ocean temperatures. Last year's El Niño-fueled event decimated reefs in the Florida Keys, but this year's cooler waters and increased cloud cover helped mitigate damage after ocean temperatures reached extreme levels last year. However, while some coral colonies in offshore nurseries have spawned, reefs remain under stress and are still at an alert level. As water temperatures return to normal, conservationists are cautiously optimistic as they resume coral outplanting and anticipate improved reproduction later this year.
Florida Arts Community Scrambles for Funds after DeSantis’ Veto
Art nonprofits are reeling after Gov. DeSantis vetoed $32 million in state arts funding this summer, leaving many arts and cultural institutions struggling to bridge the budgetary gap. The veto has left over 100 local nonprofits in Central Florida scrambling to fill a $6.9 million funding gap. Organizations like the United Arts of Central Florida emphasized the far-reaching impact of the arts on everyday life, encompassing everything from music and dance to architecture, and generating an economic impact. The money cut from the state budget was essential for operational support, enabling organizations to provide diverse programs serving communities from schoolchildren to veterans. DeSantis justified the cuts by citing taxpayer objections to certain beneficiaries like the Fringe Festival and their controversial activities. Recognizing how the arts are vital to their community's cultural and economic well-being, some local governments are allocating funds to keep local arts organizations afloat. However, grants are limited and some groups fear they will have to change their business models, which could include programming cuts, reduction in outreach, or transitioning to a fee-for-service model. Arts advocates continue to express concerns about the potential long-term effects on the state's cultural landscape due to the unexpected decreases.
Rare Sea Turtle Sets Record in Florida
The world’s rarest sea turtle, the Kemp’s Ridley, is setting nesting records in Florida during the 2024 season. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC), 24 nests have been recorded so far, compared to 10 in 2023 and 8 in 2022. While these numbers may seem small, they represent a significant increase for this endangered species, which primarily nest in the Western Gulf of Mexico. Notably, Kemp's Ridleys nest during the day, unlike other species. Loggerheads and leatherbacks also saw high numbers, while green turtles experienced a decline after last year's record-breaking figures.
Michelin-Starred Chef Brings New Fine Dining Experience to St. Petersburg's Vinoy
The historic Vinoy Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg is set to welcome a new culinary destination in early 2025. Michelin-starred chef Lee Wolen, in partnership with the acclaimed Boka Restaurant Group, will open Elliott Aster, a sophisticated steak and seafood restaurant. Named after a native lavender wildflower and the real estate developer who gave the Vinoy its name, the restaurant promises an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring dry-aged steaks, gourmet pasta dishes, and fresh seafood, alongside an antipasti bar offering Italian delicacies. Wolen, known for his successful Chicago establishments, expressed excitement about bringing his culinary vision to St. Petersburg. The restaurant will offer refined indoor dining and a vibrant waterfront patio, aiming to become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This addition marks the final phase of The Vinoy's extensive renovation project.
Roar into Halloween: Dinosaur World's Jurassic Haunt Returns
This Halloween season, Dinosaur World in Plant City transforms into a spooky prehistoric landscape for “Jurassic Haunt: The Curse Unearthed.” On select nights this October (Oct. 11-12, 18-19, 25-26) from 6 PM to 9 PM, guests can explore the park after dark, navigating haunted trails, family-friendly scare zones, and thrilling attractions. Designed for all ages, the event will feature immersive sound effects and light displays that bring the dinosaurs to life, with scarier zones clearly marked for younger guests. Popular attractions like fossil digs and mini-golf remain open, complemented by carnival games, food vendors, and adult beverages from Keel Farms. Tickets are $15 per person, with free parking.
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!