Florida handicap parking now open to pregnant women with a permit

From morning sickness to swollen feet, pregnancy creates all kinds of challenges for expectant mothers.  State lawmakers are making sure finding a parking spot will not be one of them. A new Florida law that took effect on July 1 allows pregnant women to get a handicap parking permit.

DeSantis signs law extending condo safety inspection deadline

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill Monday that modifies key provisions of the condominium safety laws enacted after the 2021 Surfside building collapse that killed 98 people.

How to get a Florida learners permit? New class required for teen drivers

Starting July 1, teens in Florida seeking a learner’s permit will be required to complete a state-approved driver education course, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

Senator Danny Burgess files bill to improve flood mitigation ahead of hurricane season

Florida State Senator Danny Burgess has introduced legislation aimed at improving flood mitigation efforts by requiring local governments to inspect stormwater management systems before each hurricane season.

Who is Wilton Simpson? The Florida Legislature against DeSantis's immigration bill

The Florida Legislature convened on Monday, as required by the state constitution, for Gov. DeSantis's special session to address immigration enforcement. 

New Florida laws take effect Jan. 1: Here’s what to know

From banning children under 14 from having social media accounts to not harassing first responders, there are nine new laws taking effect on Jan. 1, 2025. 

Over 150 new Florida laws go into effect on July 1: Here are some highlights

Governor Ron DeSantis has been busy over the last couple months, signing a plethora of bills into law, and on Monday, over 150 of those bills will go into effect.

Bill backed by Gov. DeSantis to address homeless crisis under scrutiny

A new bill proposed to help with Florida's homeless crisis is backed by Governor DeSantis, but is under scrutiny by some homeless advocates.

Florida teachers pick up extra jobs to make ends meet

Educators in Central Florida are scraping to get by and many are picking up second jobs. Fox 35 profiled two teachers who found it necessary to pick up extra work to make ends meet for their families.

NAACP issues travel advisory for those traveling to Florida in light of DeSantis' 'restrictive' policies

On the day Florida Governor Ron DeSantis returned to his home state after traveling to New Hampshire, the NAACP issued a travel advisory for those choosing to travel to the Sunshine state — citing laws that the organization said restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Florida senator proposes new distinctively marked license plates for registered sex offenders

A Florida Senator added an amendment to a bill that would require registered sex offenders to have license plates on their cars with the words "sexual offender" marked in red, along with some other stipulations.

How new Florida law could impact LGBTQ+ pride parades

Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign a bill that would block minors from attending certain drag shows.

Florida lawmakers propose targeting drag queen performances where children are present

Members of the Central Florida drag community are stepping into the spotlight to voice their opposition after state lawmakers file two bills targeting their performances.

Here's the last day to register to vote in Florida

Florida residents have less than a week to register to vote in the general election coming up on November 8. 

Senator Ileana Garcia appointed to Florida council on human trafficking

Florida Senator Ileana Garcia was appointed to Chair of the Senate Committee on Children, Families and Elder Affairs on Thursday.  

AARP Florida concerned new law will negatively impact nursing home care

In a state with one of the largest 65-plus populations in the U.S., AARP Florida is sounding the alarm about a bill recently signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

New law aimed at protecting children from dying in hot cars

August will mark four years since the death of 3-year-old Myles Hill.  His tragic death, which according to investigators was the result of being left inside a hot van, inspired change.