Latvala 'temporarily' removed as Senate appropriations chairman

Sen. Jack Latvala of Clearwater was removed Monday as Chair of the Committee on Appropriations as the Senate launches an independent investigation of allegations that he sexually harassed six women. Senate President Joe Negron sent a memo to all Senate staff announcing that Sen. Rob Bradley, R-Fleming Island, will take Latvala’s place as budget chairman. Earlier, Latvala released a letter he had sent to Negron Monday, asking to take a "leave of absence" from his chairmanship "until this matter is resolved." More from the Tampa Bay Times.

'Small Business Saturday' tax holiday proposed for Florida businesses

Under the proposal, small businesses would be able to sell items costing less than $1,000 without charging sales taxes the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 2018. Lawmakers have considered similar proposals in the past but have not approved them. More from WUSF.

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» Expo to offer entrepreneurs jumpstart for Small Business Saturday

Jacksonville’s Fanatics inks exclusive merchandise deal with Major League Soccer

Jacksonville-based Fanatics Inc. announced a deal with Major League Soccer Monday that extends an ecommerce agreement between the company and the league and gives Fanatics exclusive rights to merchandise. More from the Florida Times-Union.

TECO announces Gordon Gillette’s retirement, names new CEO

Gordon Gillette, CEO of Tampa Electric Co., will retire Nov. 30, the utility’s parent company Emera Inc. announced Monday. He will be replaced by longtime Emera executive Nancy Tower. More from the Tampa Bay Times.

Port Everglades reports cruise traffic up for FY2017

Port Everglades has reported increased cruise passengers for its fiscal year 2017, ended Sept. 30, 2017. The port also posted a new record for containerized cargo volumes with 1,076,893 TEUs (the industry standard container measurement of 20-foot equivalent units) moving through the port. More from Cruise Industry News.