Tuesday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 1/12/2016

Florida death penalty system is ruled unconstitutional by U.S. Supreme Court

The U.S. Supreme Court says Florida's system for sentencing people to death is unconstitutional because it gives too much power to judges — and not enough to juries — to decide capital sentences. "Held: Florida’s capital sentencing scheme violates the Sixth Amendment," as quoted from the ruling, delivered by Justice Sotomayor. See the full story from Reuters, here. More at the Tampa Bay Times, USA Today, and Bloomberg.

» Read the Hurst v. Florida ruling from the Supreme Court of the United States, here.

Governor Rick Scott's 2016 State of State speech marks beginning of session

Gov. Rick Scott's sixth State of the State speech coincides with the beginning of the 60-day legislative session. The stakes may be higher this year for Scott since he is trying to sway a divided and recalcitrant Florida Legislature to pass his $1 billion tax cut package. More at the AP.

Hotel travelers gripe as resort fees rise

More U.S. hotels - particularly in Florida, California, Hawaii and Nevada - are charging resort fees, according to a new study that will be released on Tuesday by Travelers United. More at Reuters.

Private firm may run Brevard's three county golf courses

Brevard County wants to bring in an expert in golf course management to run and revitalize the county's three golf courses. County commissioners on Tuesday will consider signing lease and management agreements with Integrity Golf Co. LLC to operate the county's courses. More at Florida Today.

GRU appoints new technology leader

After a nationwide search, Gainesville Regional Utilities has appointed Walter Banks to fill the new position of chief information officer. Banks has 20 years of experience with planning and leading information technology projects. More at the Gainesville Sun.

Around the State
Droning on

South Florida businesses aren’t waiting for the Federal Aviation Administration to issue regulations for commercial drone use. Many are already using them as a business tool.

» Access full story

Business Profile
Ginnybakes

In this made-in-Miami story, Ginnybakes has created a recipe for success. The young food-products company offering organic, gluten-free and kosher snacks started out five years ago as one woman’s vision and then a tiny family company with all hands on deck.