The Florida House has unveiled plans to overhaul the state’s Medicaid program. The proposal includes new co-pays and work requirements. But as Lynn Hatter reports longtime observers say the program is stingy as-is, and they’re questioning whether the House plan is even feasible.
The Florida House wants to eliminate Enterprise Florida, an agency responsible for recruiting businesses to the state. But Nick Evans reports some worry the House’s crusade against one agency could hamper broader economic efforts.
All of the debate about immigration on the federal level is also percolating down to the state level.
Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would boost penalties – including jail time – for people unlawfully in the country who commit certain violent offenses. As we hear from John Davis at member station WGCU in Fort Myers, the bill’s opponents have more than a few constitutional concerns.
Of course, the current immigration debate doesn’t only concern individuals without the proper paperwork to be in this country. It also concerns the cities and counties who offer such people a haven from federal immigration authorities. Florida lawmakers are proposing a bill that would penalize those local jurisdictions. Steve Newborn from member station WUSF in Tampa talked about it with Politifact Florida’s Josh Gillin.
Pari-mutuel gambling seems to be a major sticking point between the Florida House and Senate gambling plans. Regan McCarthy reports one issue is whether the facilities should get to operate slot machines.