In a state so often divided along partisan lines, Democrats and Republicans alike were moved to tears as they gathered in the Florida capitol Thursday to honor the life and legacy of Democratic state Sen. Geraldine Thompson, a longtime legislator, civil rights legend and educator who died on Feb. 13 at the age of 76.

A Senate committee Tuesday approved a bill (SB 184) that would require cities and counties to allow adding what are technically known as accessory dwelling units — but are often known as granny flats — in single-family residential areas.

With skyrocketing property insurance and the cost of housing among the biggest concerns for Floridians, two Republican lawmakers recently introduced a couple of bills aimed at giving relief to homeowners. However, some experts say that if approved, the bills might have the opposite effect.