Florida voters feel cost crunch, struggle with national division
The James Madison Institute’s latest statewide survey finds Florida voters squeezed by rising costs, wary of national division and largely open to policy changes on property taxes, education and energy. The poll found 92% of Florida voters say their living costs have ticked up, with insurance (24%) and taxes (22%) topping the list of perceived drivers of housing affordability challenges. Housing supply trailed at 19%. Property taxes, in particular, are emerging as a flashpoint. More from Florida Politics and Florida Daily.
Florida may put public sector unions on life support
A labor union bill backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Koch-backed Freedom Foundation that opponents say represents “the final nail in the coffin” for Florida unions is headed for the Senate floor. This year's measure (SB 1296) fundamentally changes the rules for how public sector unions are certified to represent workers. The bill mandates labor unions must have approval of 50% plus one of all workers in the bargaining unit, including those who do not vote to maintain certification. [Source: Florida Today]
Will Florida Supreme Court review lawmakers’ property tax proposal? Only if someone sues
The tax proposal is a legislative ballot measure that will require voters to weigh in. The Florida Supreme Court doesn’t automatically review that type of proposal. The state Supreme Court typically reviews citizen-led initiatives before they go to voters, not ones passed by the legislature. In this case, the court would review the proposal’s language only if anyone files a lawsuit challenging it. Given the controversial nature of the property tax proposal, experts believe it is likely to face legal challenges. [Source: Tampa Bay Times]
Updated report details winter storm damage to Florida produce
Florida's agricultural sector sustained widespread damage following Winter Storms Ezra and Gianna. The freeze affected vegetables and melons, citrus, sugarcane, fruits, horticulture, and aquaculture. Producers reported losses linked to crops not ready for harvest, windy conditions, limited storage, labor shortages, and limited crop protection resources. Total estimated losses across all commodities reach US$3,171,103,168.89. [Source: Fresh Plaza]
Proposal allows the governor to suspend Cuba trade laws temporarily
A newly filed amendment in the Florida Legislature would grant Gov. Ron DeSantis immediate authority to suspend state laws restricting trade and interactions with Cuba if the U.S. federal government changes Cuba’s diplomatic status. Under the proposal, the governor must submit written recommendations for policy changes concerning Cuba to legislative leaders within 30 days after the federal government’s diplomatic change. More from the Tampa Bay Times and Florida's Voice.
5 steps to avoid litigation before a contract’s signed
Corporate litigators are known for skillfully and persuasively advocating on behalf of their clients. Yet their greatest achievement is often preventing disputes from ever reaching a courtroom or mediation table. Well-drafted and reviewed documents, saying little in digital correspondence that could later be construed as terms of an agreement, and keeping the legal team advised of potential issues can help avoid situations that could spark litigation. [Sponsored report]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› New institute to join Rollins College's $200M Innovation Triangle
Rollins College is expanding beyond traditional MBA education with the launch of the Rick Goings Institute for Management and Executive Leadership, a new program aimed at seasoned executives. The Winter Park-based liberal arts college has launched the institute as part of its $200 million Innovation Triangle development. The institute will start its programming in 2026 with a full launch in 2027.
› Sporting Jax plans stadium near St. Johns Town Center
Sporting Club Jacksonville plans to construct its new soccer stadium near the St. Johns Town Center, club owner Ricky Caplin announced March 2, the next step in a search process that has lasted more than three years. The proposed 15,000-seat stadium, to be privately funded, would serve as the venue for the Sporting Jax women's team in the top-division Gainbridge Super League as well as the Sporting Jax men's team due to kick off March 7 in the second-division USL Championship.
› Moez Limayem says USF is ‘open for business’
Moez Limayem began his presidency at the University of South Florida in February with a clear workforce agenda: embed internships into every student’s path and position USF as a frictionless partner for employers. He described his first priority in three words: “Listen, listen, listen.” He returned to USF as its ninth president after leading the University of North Florida and after spending a decade in Tampa as dean of what is now the Muma College of Business.
› Cox Science Center in West Palm Beach names new CEO
As the Cox Science Center and Aquarium enters the final stretch of its massive expansion project, a new CEO will lead the West Palm Beach institution in Dreher Park. Kurt Allen will take the top job at Cox Science Center on March 9, the center has announced. The move comes as the institution reaches the final phase of its $150 million expansion.
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› Manatee ATV manufacturer makes move to expand dealer network
An ATV manufacturer based in Manatee County, Recreatives Industries Inc., has entered into a manufacturer’s representative agreement that it says will accelerate its dealer expansion and commercial market growth. Recreatives Industries, a publicly traded firm makes amphibious, six-wheel-drive all-terrain vehicles called MAX.
› A new luxury hotel is proposed in Sunrise near I-75, drawing both support and opposition
A new seven-story luxury hotel could rise next to a Sunrise shopping center just west of I-75, a plan that has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters say the hotel could be an economic boon, offering new amenities and convenience. But there has been a swell of opposition, with neighbors raising concerns about potential traffic congestion, light and noise pollution, safety, and the prospect of even more development.
› Rays unveil premium club renovations at Tropicana Field
The Tampa Bay Rays will debut a series of privately funded renovations to premium club areas and suites at Tropicana Field when the team returns for its April 6 home opener against the Chicago Cubs. The upgrades include full redesigns of The Baldwin Group Club, the DEX Imaging Home Plate Club and multiple suite levels. The team said the improvements reflect a renewed focus under new ownership on upgrading the premium fan experience ahead of the 2026 season.
› Looking for some 305 merch? This retail chain has a deal for you
In celebration of 305 Day on Thursday, Goodwill South Florida conceived its first Miami‑inspired shopping experience for a week. From March 5–12, every Miami-Dade Goodwill retail store — around 20 of them, from Homestead to Kendall, Hialeah to the Aventura area — will feature a special 305 Day Rack stocked with Miami-themed merchandise.