The Florida Legislature wasn’t able to get it done on time, but leaders are nearing the finish line for the coming fiscal year’s budget. Nick Evans reports drafters closed out numerous portions of the spending plan Wednesday after days of behind the scenes negotiations.
Florida lawmakers have a budget. But that’s come at the cost of a process that has in recent years, been a lot more transparent than it is now. Lawmakers have struck deals largely in secret, seemingly backtracking on House Speaker Richard Corcoran’s promise that this would be the most transparent process in legislative history. Lynn Hatter reports.
Lawmakers have folded and left the table when it comes to passing a comprehensive gambling overhaul bill this legislative session. Regan McCarthy reports
Scores of bills are dead or dying as lawmakers bring the 2017 session to a bumpy conclusion. Ironically, the casualties include a measure that would have given the Legislature the power to impeach prosecutors and public defenders. Jim Ash has more.
Local control advocates say the Florida legislature has taken preempting home rule to a new level this session. The legislature wants to extend property tax breaks, regulate vacation rentals and community redevelopment agencies. Sarah Mueller reports all of that is not sitting particularly well with local elected officials.
A school bus safety bill is now heading to Governor Rick Scott, after passing the Senate this week. But, as Sascha Cordner reports, it not only received bipartisan support, but some bipartisan opposition as well.
After years of debate, the legislature has decided to deregulate a slate of professions. Cosmetologists to geologists to boxing announcers could have a better shot at starting a business. But Kate Payne reports those same workers have doubts about the reforms.