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Florida's Turning Points Since 1958
Pivotal events over the past 50 years that have helped to shape Florida today.
Scripps Research Institute [Photo: Eileen Escarda] |
2004: Hurricanes in 2004-05 further exacerbate the condition of the state’s private insurance market. The Legislature lifts restrictions on Citizens Property Insurance, now the state’s biggest home insurer, with more than $440 billion in exposure. As the state-backed insurer, Citizens can charge all Florida property insurance policyholders to make up for deficits after catastrophes.
2005: Voters in Broward County approve slot machines at pari-mutuel facilities not operated by tribes. Miami-Dade voters first reject slots but follow suit two years later.
2005: The Base Realignment and Closing process produces a net gain of 3,720 jobs for the state and keeps Florida’s bases an integral part of the state’s economy.
2006: The Legislature creates medical schools at the University of Central Florida and Florida International University. A program at FSU had been expanded to a full medical school in 2001.
2008: Gov. Charlie Crist signs a $1.7-billion deal for the state to acquire U.S. Sugar.
U.S. Sugar President Bob Buker and Gov. Crist [Photo: Michael McElroy] |