FLORIDA NEWS
Baking outside the box: The Golden Edge Sweets in Jacksonville goes nationwide with unique virtual bakery
Read full article: Baking outside the box: The Golden Edge Sweets in Jacksonville goes nationwide with unique virtual bakeryIn this exciting segment, The Golden Edge Sweets is serving up more than just delicious cookies—they’re dishing out oversized, handcrafted treats made from scratch with bold, unforgettable flavors!
UF-led research reveals tomato disease spreading rapidly across continents
Read full article: UF-led research reveals tomato disease spreading rapidly across continentsTomatoes represent a $1.9 billion annual crop, nationwide. They’re planted on 330,000 acres across 18 states, but diseases such as bacterial spot can ravage the popular crop.
Florida House approves bill to shift ‘bed tax’ money from tourism marketing to property tax relief
Read full article: Florida House approves bill to shift ‘bed tax’ money from tourism marketing to property tax reliefThe Florida House on Friday approved a $5.008 billion tax package after making a change to a controversial proposal about shifting money collected for tourism marketing.
With Florida lawmakers at odds over budget, House takes Monday off & Dems lose party member amid turmoil
Read full article: With Florida lawmakers at odds over budget, House takes Monday off & Dems lose party member amid turmoilSenate President Ben Albritton, R-Wauchula, said philosophical differences are stalling progress with the state budget, specifically over tax relief plans.
Lawsuit challenging Florida ban on ‘lab-grown’ meat cleared to move forward
Read full article: Lawsuit challenging Florida ban on ‘lab-grown’ meat cleared to move forwardA federal judge Friday cleared the way for a California-based company to continue pursuing a challenge to a 2024 state law that bans the sale and manufacturing of “cultivated” meat in Florida.
UF study shows about 40% of residents don’t know they must follow irrigation restrictions
Read full article: UF study shows about 40% of residents don’t know they must follow irrigation restrictionsAbout 22 million people already live in Florida, and it’s expected to grow to 33 million by 2070. Those who irrigate lawns tap into the same water, much of it from the Floridan aquifer.
Non-native trees are quietly invading US forests, causing a decline in native trees, UF research finds
Read full article: Non-native trees are quietly invading US forests, causing a decline in native trees, UF research findsA new University of Florida study tracking more than 5 million trees over nearly three decades reveals a troubling trend for the future of forests in the United States – the loss of native trees.
House passes bill to propose dog registry, liability insurance for owners following attack on Putnam mail carrier
Read full article: House passes bill to propose dog registry, liability insurance for owners following attack on Putnam mail carrierThe House passed a new bill aimed at creating a dog registry and requiring owners of those dogs to have $100,000 in liability insurance on Wednesday.
Gov. DeSantis awards nearly $15M in grants for workforce development, infrastructure improvements
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis awards nearly $15M in grants for workforce development, infrastructure improvementsFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis will hold a press conference in at Indian River College in Fort Pierce Wednesday morning.
Moo-ve over methane: UF researchers test new feed to cut cow emissions from burps, farts
Read full article: Moo-ve over methane: UF researchers test new feed to cut cow emissions from burps, fartsResearchers at the University of Florida are steak-ing their reputations on a solution to cows contributing to greenhouse gases: A way to make their burps and farts cause less damage to the climate.
Produce with a purpose: How Thx! is changing farmworkers’ lives by sharing their stories
Read full article: Produce with a purpose: How Thx! is changing farmworkers’ lives by sharing their storiesThx! is a purpose-driven brand that empowers farmworkers by connecting consumers to the people behind their produce.
Local firefighters among those honored at fallen firefighter ceremony at State Capitol
Read full article: Local firefighters among those honored at fallen firefighter ceremony at State CapitolThe Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of State Fire Marshal will host the Ringing of the Bell Ceremony on Tuesday at 9 a.m. in the Capitol courtyard.
Bark and Brew: The Jumbo Shrimp’s first dog day of the season is this Sunday, April 27
Read full article: Bark and Brew: The Jumbo Shrimp’s first dog day of the season is this Sunday, April 27The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are sliding into the new season with a winning record, a revamped ballpark, and a full slate of fan-friendly events — including their much-loved Dog Day this Sunday, presented by Forever Vets.
Former federal prosecutor weighs in on possible charges for alleged Florida State University gunman
Read full article: Former federal prosecutor weighs in on possible charges for alleged Florida State University gunmanFormer federal prosecutor and current defense attorney Curtis Fallgatter joined News4JAX anchor Bruce Hamilton on The Morning Show to discuss potential charges against accused FSU gunman Phoneix Ikner.
New insurance company enters Florida market ahead of hurricane season
Read full article: New insurance company enters Florida market ahead of hurricane seasonA new insurance company is joining the Florida market just months before the start of hurricane season, marking the 12th company to enter the insurance landscape since lawmakers passed state laws aimed at reforming the industry.
Florida legislators pass bill that could reshape how universities select their leadership
Read full article: Florida legislators pass bill that could reshape how universities select their leadershipAmid fierce opposition from Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Florida House on Wednesday approved revamping laws about leadership of the higher-education system, including opening information about applicants to become college and university presidents.
Memories of 2014 shooting at FSU brought back to the surface over 10 years later
Read full article: Memories of 2014 shooting at FSU brought back to the surface over 10 years laterAn active shooter incident occurred at Florida State University in Tallahassee on Thursday, and unfortunately, it’s not the first time a shooting has occurred on the university’s campus.
UF study finds risky human behavior, not alligator aggression, leads to bites
Read full article: UF study finds risky human behavior, not alligator aggression, leads to bitesRisky human behavior, not aggression by alligators, is the leading cause of alligator bites, according to a groundbreaking study by scientists at the University of Florida and Centre College in Kentucky.
Florida House passes bill to limit projects like golf courses, pickleball courts at state parks
Read full article: Florida House passes bill to limit projects like golf courses, pickleball courts at state parksDevelopment such as golf courses, pickleball courts and luxury lodges would be prohibited at Florida state parks under legislation passed Wednesday by the state House following a public outcry against such projects that were pushed by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration.
‘It’s disgraceful’: DeSantis criticizes Florida House budget, says it cuts law enforcement raises and trooper positions
Read full article: ‘It’s disgraceful’: DeSantis criticizes Florida House budget, says it cuts law enforcement raises and trooper positionsFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis is set to speak at the Florida Highway Patrol station in Fort Myers Wednesday morning alongside FHMSV Executive Director Dave Kerner.
‘It shocks the system’: Florida lawmakers consider bill to combat rising number of suicides among firefighters
Read full article: ‘It shocks the system’: Florida lawmakers consider bill to combat rising number of suicides among firefightersBurnout, trauma and high stress are significant factors threatening the mental health of firefighters. To combat an increase in firefighter suicides, Florida lawmakers are considering a new bill.
News4JAX donates books to local preschool on National Donate a Book Day
Read full article: News4JAX donates books to local preschool on National Donate a Book DayMonday, April 14, marked National Donate a Book Day, a day dedicated to promoting book donations to libraries and schools to enhance literacy initiatives.
DeSantis officially signs bills enforcing ‘Gulf of America’ name change in Florida schools, geographic materials
Read full article: DeSantis officially signs bills enforcing ‘Gulf of America’ name change in Florida schools, geographic materialsGov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed two bills aimed at carrying out President Donald Trump’s directive to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, according to the Florida Senate.
Rising concerns over deepfakes prompt new legislation in Florida after Jacksonville teen targeted
Read full article: Rising concerns over deepfakes prompt new legislation in Florida after Jacksonville teen targetedAs access to artificial intelligence expands, concerns are growing about the potential for individuals to fall victim to deepfakes. In response, a bill championed by Jacksonville state representative Wyman Duggan is making its way through the Capitol, aiming to protect Floridians from the harmful effects of such technology.
Florida universities to deputize campus police for immigration enforcement
Read full article: Florida universities to deputize campus police for immigration enforcementThe police departments of at least three public universities in Florida are seeking agreements with the federal government to carry out immigration enforcement on campus.
UF study explores balance between urban park design, wildlife conservation for thriving ecosystems
Read full article: UF study explores balance between urban park design, wildlife conservation for thriving ecosystemsAcross the United States, more than 440 national parks and 7,400 urban parks offer a variety of recreational green spaces for people and pets.
UF study reveals boats may unknowingly transport invasive termites, increasing infestation risks
Read full article: UF study reveals boats may unknowingly transport invasive termites, increasing infestation risksWhen you think of termites, you probably don’t imagine them aboard yachts, cabin cruisers, sailboats or other watercrafts floating across oceans.
National Pet Day: Make your pets local stars Friday by sharing photos, videos on SnapJAX
Read full article: National Pet Day: Make your pets local stars Friday by sharing photos, videos on SnapJAXFriday, April 11, is National Pet Day, and there’s nothing we love more than an excuse to have you share photos of your beloved animal family members with us.
Students, school districts declare vocal opposition to state law changes that would affect AP, IB, other courses
Read full article: Students, school districts declare vocal opposition to state law changes that would affect AP, IB, other coursesAs the Florida Legislature considers two bills that could slash funding for popular acceleration programs in public schools, students, parents and school district leaders are sharing vocal opposition to the changes.
Jacksonville lawmaker pushes bill aiming to protect victims from deepfakes after former mayor’s daughter targeted
Read full article: Jacksonville lawmaker pushes bill aiming to protect victims from deepfakes after former mayor’s daughter targetedA bill moving through the Florida Capitol could have significant implications for victims of deepfakes, with its roots firmly planted in Jacksonville.
‘Flight Deck’ set to soar: Esports arena at UNF set to take off with $3M boost from Jacksonville City Council
Read full article: ‘Flight Deck’ set to soar: Esports arena at UNF set to take off with $3M boost from Jacksonville City CouncilThe Flight Deck, an innovative esports arena, will be a reality next year at the University of North Florida after the Jacksonville City Council granted $3 million to the project.
Duval County Public Schools could face $8M funding cut under proposed state law changes
Read full article: Duval County Public Schools could face $8M funding cut under proposed state law changesDuval County Public Schools could lose up to $8 million in funding if proposed changes to state laws pass, potentially cutting 50% of financial support for critical student programs like Advanced Placement and Career Education.
Florida House committee unanimously approves bill that would prevent development at state parks
Read full article: Florida House committee unanimously approves bill that would prevent development at state parksA bill aimed at preventing a return of efforts to build golf courses, pickleball courts and resorts in state parks is ready to go to the full Florida House.
Historic victory: University of Florida now only school to win 3 NCAA titles in both football, men’s basketball
Read full article: Historic victory: University of Florida now only school to win 3 NCAA titles in both football, men’s basketballThe University of Florida is the only school to have won three NCAA Division I titles in both men’s basketball (2006, 2007, 2025) and football (1996, 2006, 2008).
Florida wins its third NCAA basketball title and denies Houston its first, rallying for 65-63 victory
Read full article: Florida wins its third NCAA basketball title and denies Houston its first, rallying for 65-63 victoryFlorida wins its third NCAA basketball title and denies Houston its first, rallying for 65-63 victory.
Protesters demand changes to 2 bills designed to protect Florida state parks from development
Read full article: Protesters demand changes to 2 bills designed to protect Florida state parks from developmentTwo bills moving through the Florida Legislature aim to block development in nine state parks, including Anastasia State Park, but environmental advocates are concerned the bills lack specific protections. Protests are being held throughout April, urging lawmakers to amend the bills to ensure stronger safeguards against commercial development.
‘More than a simple name change’: Florida House passes two bills supporting ‘Gulf of America’ name change
Read full article: ‘More than a simple name change’: Florida House passes two bills supporting ‘Gulf of America’ name changeErasing the Gulf of Mexico from state laws and educational materials won Florida House approval Thursday. The Republican-controlled House passed two bills along party lines to carry out President Donald Trump’s directive to rename the gulf as the Gulf of America.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announces charges in MS-13 killing as the Trump administration highlights its gang crackdown
Read full article: Attorney General Pam Bondi announces charges in MS-13 killing as the Trump administration highlights its gang crackdownThree alleged MS-13 gang members have been federally charged in connection with a killing a decade ago in Florida, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Friday, seeking to highlight the Trump administration’s push to prosecute violent gangs.
Gov. DeSantis, Florida agency under fire over possible mishandling of $160 million Medicaid funds
Read full article: Gov. DeSantis, Florida agency under fire over possible mishandling of $160 million Medicaid fundsGov. Ron DeSantis and his administration faced criticism after a report from Tallahassee suggested the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) may have lost $160 million.
Bear in mind: Spring brings Florida’s black bears out of hibernation, so stay safe and secure!
Read full article: Bear in mind: Spring brings Florida’s black bears out of hibernation, so stay safe and secure!Florida’s wildlife is becoming more active since it’s springtime. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) reminds the public to watch out for bears.
Jimmy Patronis, Sen. Randy Fine win special election seats for Florida districts 1, 6
Read full article: Jimmy Patronis, Sen. Randy Fine win special election seats for Florida districts 1, 6Voters in parts of Northeast Florida have until 7 p.m. Tuesday to cast a ballot in a special election to replace Rep. Michael Waltz. Waltz resigned from Congress on Jan. 20 to join the Trump administration as national security advisor.
‘Citrus not going down on my watch’: Florida Senate President pushing to revitalize struggling citrus industry
Read full article: ‘Citrus not going down on my watch’: Florida Senate President pushing to revitalize struggling citrus industryAs the Florida House and Senate prepare to negotiate a new state budget, among the big issues they will face is a push by Senate President Ben Albritton, a citrus grower, to help the state’s struggling citrus industry.
Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore hold first press conference since returning to Earth
Read full article: Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore hold first press conference since returning to EarthNASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have returned to Earth after being stuck in space for more than nine months.
Clay County Fair 2025: Officials, organizers highlight heightened safety, traffic and security measures ahead of April 3
Read full article: Clay County Fair 2025: Officials, organizers highlight heightened safety, traffic and security measures ahead of April 3Clay County officials and fair organizers are gearing up for the highly anticipated 2025 Clay County Fair.