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Monday's Daily Pulse
What you need to know about Florida today
2015 job growth leads to record-high employment in Florida
With an addition of 240,000 jobs in 2015, Florida continues to rise from the Great Recession, says Florida TaxWatch. Over the past year, all of Florida’s major industries have seen strong employment gains, with government being the only industry with a reduction in jobs. The unemployment rate has fallen to five percent, matching the national rate and reaching its lowest point since January 2008. Full report from Florida TaxWatch, here.
Corporations tying giving to business strategy
When it comes to U.S. corporate giving, the news is encouraging. More companies are engaging in smart and strategic community investment initiatives and seeing positive results. [Source: Tribune News Service]
Big-box retailers fight to tear down liquor-store walls
The fight is back to allow bourbon and bread in the same store. A handful of national retailers including Wal-Mart, Target and Walgreens are once again leading the charge to repeal a Prohibition-era state law that bans the sale of liquor in places that sell groceries. [Source: Orlando Sentinel]
Florida could decide GOP presidential nominee
What will Florida's role be in picking the Republican presidential nominee, when so many of 13 qualifying candidates likely will be weeded out before the state's March 15 primary? Decisive — "critical," even "huge," several Republican party consultants said — despite its relatively late date. [Source: TCPalm]
Florida ranked as second-fastest growing state
Heading into 2016, Florida's population is growing, and it's growing fast. With a population of 20 million, Florida is now ranked as the nation’s second-fastest growing state, right behind Texas. By 2030, the state’s population is predicted to rise to 26 million. [Source: FOX]
See also:
» Population gain is not surprising, but why?
› Florida wildlife agency may tighten rules for owning venomous snakes
State wildlife officials are considering tighter rules for owning venomous reptiles — or possibly banning ownership altogether.
› In Florida, dealing with climate change has become a local issue
The state with the most to lose from a warming planet has become a symbol of the polarized debate surrounding climate change.
› Tallahassee economic forecast: ‘Bright 2016’ with focus on growth
As 2015 comes to a close, more small businesses are encouraged to see Tallahassee’s economy strengthening and that will likely lead to more new hires, expansions and relocations. Owners may also decide to invest back into the business with major purchases.
› Voters told to update signatures in advance of Florida's presidential primary
With a presidential primary right around the corner, many Florida voters are being told they must update their legal signatures to ensure that their absentee ballots will be counted.
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