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<\/a>AARP survey finds older Floridians losing sleep over retirement, insurance, hurricanes \u2014 and apparently everything else.<\/p>\nNearly all respondents \u2014 93% \u2014 said that having adequate Social Security benefits and enough income to retire are \u201cextremely\u201d or \u201cvery important\u201d concerns. Three out of four said they are worried about the future of the Social Security program and whether it will be able to continue paying full benefits. Those fears come as Florida\u2019s 65-and-older population continues to grow faster than nearly any other age group in the state. Roughly one in five Floridians \u2014 more than 5 million people \u2014 currently receive Social Security benefits, and almost half of them rely on those payments for at least half of their income.<\/p>\n
Health care access remains another source of unease. Respondents cited continuing anxiety over the affordability of prescription drugs and the long-term stability of Medicare, both of which they view as essential to maintaining health and independence in later life. But those concerns are just one part of a wider financial picture defined by inflation and higher costs across the board. Older Floridians reported growing strain from rising utility bills, transportation expenses and especially housing costs \u2014 including property taxes, insurance premiums and rent. In states where homeowners\u2019 insurance averages more than $4,000 annually, affordability is a daily worry for those living on fixed incomes.<\/p>\n
The survey also underscores how uniquely vulnerable Florida\u2019s older residents are to natural disasters. While most respondents \u2014 73% \u2014 said they have an emergency plan in place, confidence in their ability to recover after a storm was low. Only one in four said they felt \u201cvery confident\u201d they could bounce back financially after a hurricane, while more than a third said they had little or no confidence. Insurance deductibles amplify that uncertainty: 80% of insured homeowners reported having a hurricane deductible before coverage begins, and nearly half said they were \u201cextremely\u201d or \u201cvery concerned\u201d about being able to afford it. Among those without insurance, almost three in four said the cost was simply out of reach.<\/p>\n
These overlapping pressures \u2014 high costs, fragile health security and climate risk \u2014 are shaping AARP Florida\u2019s policy direction heading into the 2026 Legislative Session. The organization\u2019s priorities center on protecting Social Security and Medicare, strengthening family caregiving support, and advancing measures to keep communities livable for older adults. AARP says those efforts are not just about comfort but about ensuring Floridians can age safely, independently and with financial peace of mind.<\/p>\n \u201cThe issues we\u2019re hearing about aren\u2019t abstract,\u201d Johnson said. \u201cThey\u2019re about real people who\u2019ve worked their whole lives and just want to know they\u2019ll be OK in the years ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n The complete 2025 Vital Voices survey can be viewed on AARP Florida\u2019s website<\/a>.<\/p>\n ___<\/p>\n Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida\u2019s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics.<\/p>\n But first, the \u201cTakeaway 5\u201d \u2014 the Top 5 stories from the week that was:<\/p>\n \u2014Take 5\u2014<\/p>\n A new challenger appears<\/a> \u2014 A spirited Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said he is confident he can gain bipartisan support to win the Governor\u2019s race as he rallied his supporters to vote out \u201cperformative politicians in Tallahassee.\u201d \u2026 \u201cThis is not a right or left moment, but a right or wrong moment in our history. The power of the people is greater than the people in power,\u201d Demings said at his rally Thursday in Orlando\u2019s tourism corridor to officially launch his bid<\/a>. \u201cWe\u2019re tired of toxic and divisive politics. If you vote for me, it\u2019s a vote for a new style of leadership. It\u2019s a vote for change. It\u2019s a vote for democracy.\u201d Then Demings, a former sheriff, countered, \u201cIt\u2019s time for a new sheriff in town.\u201d Demings will face former U.S. Rep. David Jolly<\/a> in a Democratic Primary. For Republicans, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds<\/a> and former House Speaker Paul Renner<\/a> are running for Governor.<\/p>\n Florida v. Microsoft<\/a> \u2014 Attorney General James Uthmeier says software giant Microsoft is exhibiting bias against religious groups that primarily impact Christians, representing potential violations of Florida\u2019s Civil Rights Act. The company denies it. \u201cWe have been in touch with the Florida Attorney General\u2019s office and are working to clear up any questions related to Microsoft\u2019s nonprofit discount program. Microsoft takes these issues seriously and does not engage in religious discrimination in this or any of our other programs,\u201d a spokesperson told Florida Politics Wednesday evening. For its part, the AG\u2019s office is \u201cglad Microsoft wants to correct these issues.\u201d Those issues are serious, Uthmeier says. Uthmeier alleges that Microsoft \u201chas quietly enacted some sort of tacit religious or ideological litmus test to determine institutions\u2019 eligibility.\u201d<\/p>\n House to Senate<\/a> \u2014 Rep. Josie Tomkow has officially thrown her name into the hat for the Senate District 14 Special Election to replace former Sen. Jay Collins, who is now serving as Lieutenant Governor. She enters the race with prominent backing from U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee; state Rep. Lawrence McClure, the House budget chief; Reps. Danny Alvarez, Traci Koster and Michael Owen; Sheriffs Chad Chronister of Hillsborough County, Grady Judd of Polk County and Chris Nocco of Pasco County; and Hillsborough County Commissioner Christine Miller. Tomkow also begins her Senate campaign with $3 million cash on hand, sources tell Florida Politics. Tomkow is the second prominent Republican to join the race, following Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie Griffin\u2019s entry into the race earlier Friday<\/a>.<\/p>\n Expect delays<\/a> \u2014 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA<\/a>) is ordering airlines to cut about 10% of flights at 40 of the nation\u2019s busiest airports beginning Friday in response to ongoing staffing shortages among unpaid air traffic controllers during the federal government shutdown. FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker said the move is meant to relieve pressure on the national airspace system and keep it operating safely amid rising signs of fatigue among air traffic controllers. He said the step is precautionary and intended to prevent safety problems before they occur. Tampa International Airport (TPA<\/a>), Orlando International Airport (MCO<\/a>), Miami International Airport (MIA<\/a>) and Fort Lauderdale\/Hollywood International (FLL<\/a>) are on the preliminary list of affected airports.<\/p>\n E-Verify is back<\/a> \u2014 Legislation by Seminole Republican Rep. Berny Jacques to require all private businesses in Florida to confirm that their employees can legally work in the U.S. is again advancing in the House. Members of the House Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee<\/a> voted to advance HB 197<\/a>, which would mandate the use of E-Verify<\/a>, a federal system administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that enables companies and agencies to check the legal status of new employees. The current law, enacted in 2023, requires E-Verify only for public employers and private employers with 25 or more workers. HB 197 would remove the 25-employee threshold. The measure, which has no Senate analogue yet, is Jacques\u2019 second consecutive attempt at passing the expansion. It comes amid a rising national crackdown<\/a> on undocumented immigration across the U.S. under President Donald Trump, whose administration has also worked to remove existing exceptions<\/a> and protections<\/a> for foreign-born residents.<\/p>\n \u2014 Cancer cash \u2014<\/p>\n Cancer remains one of the last issues largely immune to partisan division in Florida and across the nation.<\/p>\n This week in Jacksonville, Gov. Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced $30 million in grant funding for four of Florida\u2019s specialty children\u2019s hospitals to expand access to clinical trials, develop advanced treatment protocols, and accelerate the discovery of cures for various childhood cancers.<\/p>\n Four of Florida\u2019s top children\u2019s hospitals have received a total of $30 million in funding for their innovative proposals to help children and adolescents who are fighting cancer. By investing in statewide infrastructure for pediatric cancer initiatives, we aim to eliminate the need for Florida families to travel out of state for potentially life-saving experimental therapies and specialized care,\u201d said DeSantis.<\/p>\n Each hospital \u2014 Johns Hopkins All Children\u2019s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Nemours Children\u2019s Hospital in Orlando, Nicklaus Children\u2019s Hospital in Miami, and Wolfson Children\u2019s Hospital in Jacksonville \u2014 received $7.5 million.<\/p>\n Created in 2025 to advance pediatric cancer research, the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator is funded with $30 million. It operates as part of Florida\u2019s Cancer Connect Collaborative, a statewide model that turns research and data into life-saving results.<\/p>\n Pediatric cancer represents roughly 1% of all cancer cases nationwide. Still, Florida accounts for about 6% of new pediatric cases, making the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator a critical resource for children and families across the state.<\/p>\n A cancer survivor herself, Casey DeSantis added: \u201cResearch Incubator investments to advance research, prevention, and treatment for pediatric cancer represent a meaningful step forward in our mission to improve outcomes, strengthen families, and ensure that every child has access to the most advanced care possible right here in Florida.\u201d<\/p>\n For more information about Florida\u2019s cancer research and related initiatives, visit FLCancerConnect.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 Slow N Go \u2014<\/p>\n Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the takedown of a major drug trafficking ring following a monthslong investigation involving multiple South Florida and Treasure Coast law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n The drug interdiction effort, dubbed \u201cOperation Slow N Go,\u201d dismantled a network accused of trafficking cocaine, fentanyl, xylazine, psilocybin, marijuana, methamphetamine and several other substances.<\/p>\n Uthmeier said five people were arrested, and authorities seized six handguns along with several automatic rifles.<\/p>\n \u201cIf anyone traffics dangerous drugs like fentanyl into Florida, expect our Office of Statewide Prosecution to throw the book at you,\u201d Uthmeier said in a news release. \u201cThis case is further proof that Florida has the best sheriffs in the nation and thanks to their partnership, we have fewer criminals on the street and less fentanyl in our communities.\u201d<\/p>\n The investigation spanned six months and included cooperation from the Sheriff\u2019s Offices of Palm Beach, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, Indian River and Martin counties, as well as Police Departments in West Palm Beach, Miami and other municipalities. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) also assisted.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is a good message to everybody that with our collaborative efforts, if you commit a crime, we will catch you anywhere, inside or outside the state of Florida,\u201d said Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek. \u201cWe have broken down the barriers of the jurisdictional boundaries to protect the residents of Florida. This case exemplifies our working relationship and our resolve to catch bad guys everywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 ICE-cold cash \u2014<\/p>\n The Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) aren\u2019t exactly popular across much of the country right now. Just look at how election night unfolded Tuesday \u2014 an issue clearly on many voters\u2019 minds as they thought about community members being detained by masked officers.<\/p>\n But in Florida, ICE still pays.<\/p>\n This week, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia awarded $1.8 million to local law enforcement agencies across the Panhandle to support their immigration enforcement efforts. The Taylor County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Leon County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Suwannee County Sheriff\u2019s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff\u2019s Office, and the Chattahoochee Police Department were among those receiving additional funding.<\/p>\n \u201cOur law enforcement professionals put their lives on the line every single day. They deserve our support and the resources necessary to keep our communities safe,\u201d Ingoglia said.<\/p>\n The $1.8 million in funding was provided through the State Board of Immigration Enforcement for law enforcement agencies that applied for reimbursement. Bonuses were awarded to officers trained under the 287(g) agreement of the Immigration and Nationality Act.<\/p>\n \u201cAn investment in law enforcement is an investment in stronger, safer communities. This award ensures we have the resources and capabilities to respond to illegal immigration and that we do not have to rely solely on local resources. On behalf of the Leon County Sheriff\u2019s Office, we are thankful for the CFO\u2019s support and dedication to our officers,\u201d said Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil.<\/p>\n The Taylor County Sheriff\u2019s Office received $991,279; the Leon County Sheriff\u2019s Office received $499,523; the Suwannee County Sheriff\u2019s Office received $212,376; the Jefferson County Sheriff\u2019s Office received $130,660.70; and the Chattahoochee Police Department received $30,440.<\/p>\n \u201cAs a Sheriff, it is vital to have the support of Florida Cabinet members to ensure that our officers have the resources they need to protect and serve our communities. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for being a consistent supporter of law enforcement in North Florida,\u201d said Jefferson County Sheriff Mac McNeil.<\/p>\n \u2014 Rural tech \u2014<\/p>\n FloridaCommerce<\/a> is distributing $1.5 million to 26 communities across the state to help develop technical assistance and increase competition among businesses, particularly in smaller towns.<\/p>\n The money is coming from the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA<\/a>) and Competitive Florida Partnership<\/a> programs. FloridaCommerce is the state\u2019s business development bureau.<\/p>\n \u201cUnder Gov. Ron DeSantis\u2019 leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to support Floridians in building strong, resilient communities,\u201d said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly in a news release<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cSince 2019, FloridaCommerce has awarded more than $7.6 million through the CPTA program to over 110 communities \u2014 empowering many of Florida\u2019s small and rural communities to advance strategic economic initiatives and strengthen their local economies for future growth.\u201d<\/p>\n The majority of the latest round of funding will come from the CPTA. That program is designed to \u201cprovide local governments located in Rural Areas of Opportunity and\/or rural communities, counties, municipalities and regional planning councils the opportunity to create innovative plans and development strategies to promote a diverse economy, and meet statutory requirements for planning, while also protecting environmentally sensitive areas,\u201d the CPTA website explains.<\/p>\n Technical assistance is the primary purpose of those grants. Some of that money will also be used to assist with disaster recovery and economic development planning.<\/p>\n Each of those grants is for less than $100,000. But the money is earmarked for some of the most rural and least populated areas of the state, such as Bradford County, the city of Crystal River, Cedar Key, Greenville, Loxahatchee Groves and other rural towns and counties.<\/p>\n Some of the money goes directly to economic development strategies, while other funding helps pay for tourism opportunities, updates to land development regulations, zoning issues and other development.<\/p>\n \u2014Hurricane fines \u2014<\/p>\n Thunder rattles and lightning strikes during hurricanes, but the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) brings the boom to those who mess with Floridians, especially during our most dreaded season of the year.<\/p>\n This week, Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky and the OIR ordered penalties of $250,000 each against Kin Interinsurance Network and Slide Insurance Company for certain claims-handling practices spotted after finishing their market conduct examinations for Hurricanes Ian and Idalia. Fines assessed by the OUR do not affect policyholder insurance rates.<\/p>\n \u201cClaims management practices must always be efficient and fair, especially after Hurricanes. I have said it before and will say it again, the Office of Insurance Regulation takes consumer protection very seriously. I implore all insurers to review their practices and perform at the high caliber we expect,\u201d said Commissioner Yaworsky.<\/p>\n \u201cI am also very proud of our team\u2019s efforts in holding insurers accountable and want to commend their efforts\u2014OIR\u2019s Market Conduct Unit has initiated over 100 examinations, completed more than 340 investigations and secured $14.5 million in consumer restitution.\u201d<\/p>\n In the examination for Kin, it was discovered that they failed to provide disclosure statements for both Hurricane Ian and Idallia and failed to pay or deny claims within the 90 days for Hurricane Ian.<\/p>\n When it came to Slide, it was revealed that they were using unappointed adjusters and failed to provide disclosure statements for both Hurricanes Ian and Idalia.<\/p>\n \u201cAfter a storm, the last thing that a policyholder should have to deal with is an insurance company that is not holding up their end of the deal,\u201d said Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia.<\/p>\n \u201cI will continue to work with the Office of Insurance Regulation to ensure that Florida\u2019s insurance market is working for its insurance policyholders and that insurance companies are adhering to their requirements.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Arigato, Mr. Orlando \u2014<\/p>\n The most annoying person you know is about to become even more obnoxious when they go to Japan for the first time (or return).<\/p>\n This week the FloridaCommerce announced that during the 47th Southeast U.S.\/Japan Association (SEUS-Japan) annual meeting that \u201cZIPAIR,\u201d a subsidiary of Japan Airlines (JAL), will be hitting the sky and coming to Florida.<\/p>\n Four new nonstop passenger charter flights between Tokyo (NRT) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) are being offered not only for leisure travel, but also to serve the Florida-Japan business-travel lifeline. Orlando (which isn\u2019t too far from Tampa or Miami as well) is a massive media market, along with Tokyo.<\/p>\n \u201cZIPAIR\u2019s investment represents more than a business expansion\u2014it is a powerful symbol of the growing economic partnership between Florida and Japan. Japan is an increasingly important source of investment in Florida, and ZIPAIR\u2019s presence in Florida will cater to the growing business-travel need between Florida and Japan, further strengthening the economic, cultural and strategic ties that connect our two regions,\u201d said Florida Secretary of Commerce, J. Alex Kelly.<\/p>\n In 2024, Florida broke its tourism record, with more than 143 million visitors, including nine overseas visitors. Florida is also a key layover for many traveling to Latin America and the Caribbean, making it a natural fit for ZIPAIR as it expands its footprint into the Western Hemisphere.<\/p>\n \u201cAs the world\u2019s tourism destination, Florida is ecstatic to welcome a new direct flight from Japan with ZIPAIR,\u201d said the President and CEO of VISIT Florida, Bryan Griffin.<\/p>\n \u201cWe welcome Japanese travelers to enjoy our state with this new, easy flight path, and VISIT Florida is enthusiastically committed to facilitating even more direct flights from Japan as a gateway to Asia and the Pacific.\u201d<\/p>\n Japan is Florida\u2019s 8th-largest merchandise trading partner and the 2nd-largest in the Asia-Pacific region. DeSantis visited Japan in April 2023 to promote more business and exchange between the two countries. Japan and Florida\u2019s trade exceeds $6.8 billion annually.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is no way to overstate the importance of this new service between Asia and Orlando International Airport. Not only does this new service validate the years of effort put into developing this relationship, it also lays the groundwork for continued cooperation and business opportunities for both Asia and Central Florida,\u201d said Stephanie Kopelousos, Board Chair of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.<\/p>\n We suggest you try to take a visit before Sanae Takaichi goes full \u201cMakes Japan Great Again\u201d and takes Japan back to the days before Matthew Perry, and they closed the country to all tourists and non-Japanese people (or Dutch, they were cool with them).<\/p>\n \u2014 Instagram of the week \u2014<\/p>\n \u2014 18+ Holiday Gift \u2014<\/p>\n Thanksgiving and Christmas are approaching sooner than one thinks.<\/p>\n The time to give and spend time with loved ones. A popular gag gift\/white-elephant choice, a popular last-minute fun \u201cwhy not,\u201d or given to those who actively like to play, Florida Lottery tickets remain a classic option for the gift-giving spirit. And the Florida Lottery is reminding citizens to gift responsibly this holiday season, for everyone\u2019s safety.<\/p>\n \u201cPlaying Florida Lottery games is good fun that helps fund education across our state. But it\u2019s important to remember that while our games bring enjoyment to adults, they are not intended for children. We want to make sure everyone celebrates the holidays responsibly,\u201d said Florida Lottery Secretary John F. Davis.<\/p>\n The Florida Lottery is meant to be a form of \u201centertainment\u201d (aka legalized gambling that doesn\u2019t go to the Seminole Tribe\/Hard Rock) for adults only, and only if they can afford it. They might be a go-to small trinket for the stocking over the fireplace, but only if that oversized sock with an initial on it belongs to an 18+ year old. Don\u2019t do it. Gambling is already widespread enough with these nonstop ads and \u201clocks\u201d on ESPN.<\/p>\n The Florida Lottery\u2019s \u201cGift Responsibly\u201d message is a commitment year-round, aligned with the National Council on Problem Gambling\u2019s annual \u201cGift Responsibly Campaign.\u201d Since 1988, the Florida Lottery has paid $103.2 billion in prizes and created 4,430 millionaires, which is why some people love receiving it as a gift. But don\u2019t start the young ones on the scratch-off path.<\/p>\n Also, if you buy lottery tickets at the gas station, know the entire line is mad at you for delaying everyone. Happy holidays! For more information about the campaign, visit floridalottery.com\/play-responsibly<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2014 FWC\u2019s new face \u2014<\/p>\n Nature and the animals that inhabit the untouched areas of it are one of Florida\u2019s most prized possessions, so leadership in this area is key to maintaining one of our state\u2019s best attributes.<\/p>\n This week, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that Alberto Maza will serve as the new director for the agency\u2019s Division of Law Enforcement. Over 1,000 employees in the FWC\u2019s Division of Law Enforcement will now be led by Col. Maza as they aim to protect Floridians and Florida\u2019s natural resources, either on water or land.<\/p>\n \u201cColonel Maza holds the distinction of being the first Hispanic Colonel for the FWC, and we are confident that in his new role, he will continue moving the division and the agency forward well into the future,\u201d said Commission Chair Rodney Barreto.<\/p>\n Maza\u2019s career with the FWC goes back to 1998, when he attended the joint DEP\/FHP Academy Class #23. Maza was promoted to Law Enforcement Captain in Miami in 2016, where, after five years, he was then elevated to South Bravo\u2019s Regional Commander (Law Enforcement Major) in 2021.<\/p>\n \u201cOur officers and staff are dedicated to protecting the people of Florida and conserving our natural resources. It is my honor to represent them in this new role, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure our environmental resources are there for future generations to enjoy,\u201d said the new director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement.<\/p>\n Congratulations to the FWC, Col. Brian Smith, on his long and successful tenure in the role, and to newly appointed Col. Maza \u2014 remember, keep our animals and land safe and clean, boys.<\/p>\n \u2014 Minding Medicaid \u2014<\/p>\n A proposal moving through the Florida House and Senate would expand after-hours access to health care for Medicaid recipients across the state.<\/p>\n Rep. Felicia Robinson, a Miami Democrat, and Sen. Barbara Sharief, a Democrat from Miramar, have filed companion bills to improve access for an estimated 5 million Floridians enrolled in Medicaid.<\/p>\n Robinson is sponsoring HB 163, while Sharief is backing SB 40. The measures would direct the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to establish requirements for providers within managed care networks to offer services and appointments outside of \u201ctraditional regular business hours.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAccess to quality health care shouldn\u2019t be a 9-to-5 privilege, especially for our working families and seniors who depend on Medicaid,\u201d Robinson said in a news release. \u201cFar too often, families have to postpone vital care simply because they can\u2019t get an appointment that fits their schedule. HB 163 is a commonsense measure that ensures our managed care system is truly managing care around the realities of people\u2019s lives, not just the convenience of office hours. It\u2019s about making health care work for the patient.\u201d<\/p>\n Both bills now head to the legislative Committee review process before consideration during the 2026 Legislative Session.<\/p>\n \u2014 House housing help \u2014<\/p>\n Floridians seeking to buy their first home could get help from the businesses they work for, as proposed by a new bill working its way through the Florida House of Representatives.<\/p>\n State Rep. Jervonte \u201cTae\u201d Edmonds, a West Palm Beach Democrat, has introduced HB 311<\/a>, entitled the Homebuyer Workforce Tax Credit Act. The intent is to offset workforce shortages in the state, increase housing affordability and provide generational wealth.<\/p>\n The proposed measure would allow employers in the state to receive a 100% tax credit of up to $5,000 per worker, which could be contributed to an employee\u2019s down payment or closing costs on a home. Those employers could also acquire credits for contributing to other state programs, such as Florida\u2019s Hometown Heroes.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen employers help their workers buy homes, they\u2019re not just investing in their company, they\u2019re investing in Florida\u2019s future,\u201d Edmonds said in a news release. \u201cHB 311 is about rewarding hard work, strengthening our workforce, and building generational wealth for families who have been locked out of homeownership for too long.\u201d<\/p>\n The measure would allow the Florida Department of Revenue to use up to $5 million annually in tax credits from 2026 through 2029 for the program.<\/p>\n The proposed bill is about to go through the legislative Committee process for review before it goes to the floor of the full House and Senate in 2026 during the regular Session.<\/p>\n \u2014 CGMs for everyone \u2014<\/p>\n Diabetes is a life-threatening condition that can take one\u2019s life if not treated with the proper precautions, medication, and monitoring.<\/p>\n Glucose monitors are a go-to for many diabetes patients to help track their blood sugar levels and how medication, diet, and exercise affect their condition.<\/p>\n This week, Tallahassee Democrat Rep. Gallop Franklin refiled HB 293, a measure that would aim to improve access to continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for Floridians on Medicaid and Medicare. HB 1465, filed last year by Franklin, a pharmacist, stalled in Committee.<\/p>\n The AHCA would be required to ask for federal approval to pay for CGMs as a durable medical equipment benefit if the legislation passes.<\/p>\n \u201cDiabetes is a growing public health issue affecting thousands of Florida families, and far too many patients struggle to access CGMs due to coverage gaps, especially under Florida\u2019s Medicaid program. HB 1465 addresses this by expanding coverage and ensuring CGMs are classified as durable medical equipment under both Medicare and Medicaid,\u201d said Rep. Franklin.<\/p>\n \u201cBy improving access, patients will have better tools to manage their condition and reduce costly emergency care and hospitalizations. The bill also requires regular follow-up visits with health care providers to ensure proper device use and mandates documentation of glucose readings to support ongoing care.\u201d<\/p>\n The end goal of HB 293 is to improve access to life-saving technology for low-income Floridians and proactively reduce the long-term adverse health effects of poorly managed diabetes, not when it\u2019s too late.<\/p>\n Approximately 2,071,045 people, or 11.6% of the adult population in Florida, have some form of diabetes according to statistics from the American Diabetes Association.<\/p>\n \u201cFlorida\u2019s health care system should work for everyone, and HB 1465 takes a vital step toward making that vision a reality,\u201d said Franklin.<\/p>\n \u2014 Blue envelope please \u2014<\/p>\n Navigating life with autism can be challenging to manage for both the individuals with it and sometimes their loved ones and those around them. And communication shouldn\u2019t be the difference between going to jail or not, or even worse.<\/p>\n This week, Sen. Shevrin Jones and Rep. Susan Vald\u00e9s announced their introduction of legislation, SB 418\/HB 365, that would create a \u201cBlue Envelope Program\u201d to help make interactions between law enforcement and people with autism during potential roadside stops.<\/p>\n \u201cAs we\u2019ve seen in other states, the Blue Envelope Program is a straightforward and effective tool designed to assist officers and emergency personnel in recognizing and adapting their approach when interacting with a driver with autism or other special needs who may experience heightened anxiety or other communication challenges, said Sen. Jones.<\/p>\n \u201cThis will help our police and emergency service personnel identify individuals\u2019 needs and limit misunderstandings. Now more than ever, we must promote empathy, understanding, and patience to keep all Floridians safe.\u201d<\/p>\n SB 418\/HB 365 would require the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to make envelopes available to individuals with autism spectrum disorder so they can hold copies of their driver\u2019s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and emergency contact information. This would be immediately provided to an officer upon request for license and registration and would improve communication for both officers and people pulled over with autism.<\/p>\n The legislation would also strengthen law enforcement training components for officers when it comes to people with autism, keeping them informed and providing the best techniques to use.<\/p>\n \u201cThis bill is about dignity and safety. By giving our officers the right tools and information, and providing the ASD community with a simple, recognizable way to communicate, we can prevent misunderstandings and ensure every traffic stop ends safely for everyone involved,\u201d said Rep. Vald\u00e9s.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is truly a win for all Floridians.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2014 Proost! \u2014<\/p>\n Begroeting! As they say in the Netherlands, for salutation! But how do you say \u201cStrike, strike, strike, again,\u201d in Dutch\u2026Hmm\u2026<\/p>\n This week, 12 Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law students got to partake in the trip of a lifetime and travel to The Hague, Netherlands (the capital city of South Holland for you geographically challenged Americans) for a global legal engagement, academic excellence, and cultural immersion program.<\/p>\n Students had access to some of the most prestigious worldwide law institutions, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.<\/p>\n \u201cVisiting The Hague was such a meaningful experience. It brought international law to life in a way no classroom ever could,\u201d said third-year law student Lineca Honore.<\/p>\n \u201cStanding inside the very institutions where justice is debated and delivered deepened my passion for this field and reminded me why I chose this path. It was both humbling and inspiring to witness how international law operates in practice and to see the global impact of what we study every day.\u201d<\/p>\n Other students who experienced law history were Aurora Crespo, Richell DeJesus, Arturo Farchakh, Taylor Lindo, Andrew McMann, Marco Perez, Joshua Salomon, Janessa Siegel, Emily Smith, Hailey Upchurch, and Lauren Woodward. The trip was coordinated by FAMU\u2019s Jeremy Levitt (J.D., Ph.D.).<\/p>\n \u201cStanding in the halls of the ICC and ICJ, students saw firsthand how principles translated into practice, and how justice was shaped on the world stage. This journey empowered our future lawyers to think beyond domestic boundaries\u2014to become advocates who led with both global insight and local relevance,\u201d said associate provost and interim dean Cecil Howard.<\/p>\n FAMU Law students are in good hands when it comes to \u201cExcellence with Caring\u201d and to positioning themselves as global leaders for law, justice, and advocacy.<\/p>\n \u2014 Google x FSU \u2014<\/p>\n When you ever need a quick answer to something, what do you do? \u201cBing it,\u201d it of course (said no one ever)! Florida State University is teaming up with the king of search engines and our everyday online lives\u2014Google.<\/p>\n This week, FSU announced its partnership with Google to offer students complimentary access to Google People Management Essentials, a learning certificate program that helps students gain insight and leadership in the professional work landscape and how artificial intelligence (AI) can play a part.<\/p>\n The College of Business is leading the initiative, in partnership with FSU Information Technology Services, to provide business students with unique, cutting-edge management training and ever-adapting AI tools.<\/p>\n \u201cAt Google, we\u2019ve seen firsthand how investing in managers creates a more effective, collaborative and supportive environment for all and drives business outcomes. We believe the principles behind effective management are universal. By sharing what we\u2019ve learned, we hope to empower leaders and their teams to thrive in any organization,\u201d said Brian Glaser, chief learning officer at Google.<\/p>\n \u201cWe believe that great managers create great teams. By making our foundational management principles accessible to everyone, we hope to empower the next generation of leaders to build a better future for teams, one manager at a time.\u201d<\/p>\n FSU is one of the first higher learning institutions in the country to offer the \u201cGoogle People Management Essentials\u201d course. The Google School for Leaders developed the self-administered and paced course, Google\u2019s center for leadership development and taught by Google experts over an eight-hour lesson to help provide aspiring entrepreneurs, future business owners, and managers the skills to assemble a high-performing team, set achievable goals, and maximize self-growth.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are excited about our partnership with Google, one of the world\u2019s most prominent tech companies, and the benefits it will offer our students. This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to prepare students for the transformative effects of AI on workplaces and society, ensuring they graduate with the relevant, in-demand skills necessary for a rapidly changing world,\u201d said Dean of the College of Business, Michael D. Hartline.<\/p>\n \u2014 Eyes on the prize \u2014<\/p>\n It pays to be amongst the best. Literally.<\/p>\n This week, the artist formerly known as TCC, Tallahassee State College (TSC), announced that it has been named among the top 200 community colleges in the United States by the Aspen Institute.<\/p>\n That puts them in play to compete for the \u201cAspen Prize for Community College Excellence,\u201d a prestigious title that comes with a $1 million prize. Selection attributes include student retention, degree completion, transferability to other universities, and attainment of bachelor\u2019s degrees.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are incredibly proud to be named among the top 200 community colleges in the nation. It affirms the work happening every day to support our students, strengthen our workforce, and elevate opportunity throughout our region,\u201d said Jim Murdaugh, TSC president.<\/p>\n Aspen is a nonprofit that has been around for 75 years, creating positive global impact through initiatives that connect people through dialogue, leadership, civility, and freedom of expression to help create a better society for everyone.<\/p>\n The Aspen Prize is considered to be the premier recognition for the nation\u2019s community college sector. Nearly 1,000 colleges were eligible, and in this ninth year, 200 colleges were selected for the first round. The most ever, proving the bar for excellence this year.<\/p>\n The winner of the Aspen Prize will be announced in Washington, D.C., in the Spring of 2027. For more information about the prize visit, visit as.pn\/prize. Good luck to all our friends and students at TSC.<\/p>\n \u2014 Predator: Christy My Love \u2014<\/p>\n Time for Florida Politics\u2019 weekly trip to the movies. Let\u2019s see what\u2019s playing in theaters and at home this week.<\/p>\n In a historically low October box office, audiences weren\u2019t exactly buying what was being sold. But someone has to win the weekend. \u201cBlack Phone 2\u201d took first place this past Halloween weekend with $8.3 million, followed by \u201cRegretting You\u201d \u2014 both starring 18-year-old Mason Thames. He also topped the box office earlier this year with \u201cHow to Train Your Dragon.\u201d Someone give his agent a raise. \u201cChainsaw Man\u201d rounded out the top three with $6.2 million.<\/p>\n Dan Trachtenberg (\u201c10 Cloverfield Lane\u201d) \u2014 an Emmy-nominated director \u2014 has completely rebooted, saved, and breathed life back into one of your dad\u2019s favorite \u201880s franchises: Predator. Not only did he direct the Emmy-nominated TV film \u201cPrey\u201d in 2022 (which totally rips), but he also helmed the acclaimed animated anthology \u201cPredator: Killers of Killers\u201d earlier this year on Hulu. Now he\u2019s ready for the IMAX.<\/p>\n \u201cPredator: Badlands\u201d follows an outcast Yautja (Predator), played by Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who teams up with a broken-down robot that\u2019s now just a head \u2014 voiced by Emmy nominee Elle Fanning (\u201cSuper 8,\u201d \u201cThe Great,\u201d \u201cA Complete Unknown\u201d). Together, they traverse the wasteland in search of the ultimate adversary. With 87% on Rotten Tomatoes (96% audience), 7.6 on IMDb, and 3.6 on Letterboxd, it\u2019s safe to say: we are so back. Warning, though \u2014 this is the first PG-13 Predator film, so expect less blood and more accessibility for new fans.<\/p>\n Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence (\u201cSilver Linings Playbook,\u201d \u201cThe Hunger Games,\u201d \u201cAmerican Hustle\u201d) joins heartthrob Robert Pattinson (\u201cTwilight,\u201d \u201cThe Batman,\u201d \u201cThe Lighthouse\u201d), Oscar winner Sissy Spacek, and nominee Nick Nolte in the dark comedy \u201cDie My Love.\u201d The film, directed by BAFTA winner Lynne Ramsay (\u201cYou Were Never Really Here,\u201d \u201cWe Need to Talk About Kevin\u201d), follows a young mother and writer slipping into madness while isolated in Montana. Premiered at Cannes, it\u2019s earning strong reviews \u2014 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.6 on IMDb, and 3.4 on Letterboxd \u2014 especially from fans of \u201cThe Girl on Fire\u201d herself.<\/p>\n Two-time Emmy nominee and controversial jeans advertiser Sydney Sweeney may be eyeing her first Oscar nomination with \u201cChristy,\u201d the true story of 1990s female boxer Christy Martin. Directed by David Mich\u00f4d (\u201cThe King,\u201d \u201cThe Rover\u201d), the film co-stars two-time Emmy winner Merritt Wever (\u201cNurse Jackie,\u201d \u201cSeverance,\u201d \u201cSigns\u201d) and Emmy nominee Ben Foster (\u201cHell or High Water,\u201d \u201c3:10 to Yuma,\u201d \u201cLeave No Trace\u201d). Unless you\u2019re a die-hard Sweeney or boxing fan, you might want to hold your bets \u2014 66% on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.1 on IMDb, and 3.4 on Letterboxd leave a bit to be desired.<\/p>\n And for those staying home, there\u2019s a treat. Still playing in select theaters but officially streaming on Netflix as of November 7 is Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro\u2019s (\u201cThe Shape of Water,\u201d \u201cHellboy,\u201d \u201cPan\u2019s Labyrinth\u201d) take on the Mary Shelley classic: \u201cFrankenstein (2025).\u201d It\u2019s everything you\u2019d expect from del Toro \u2014 stunning cinematography, breathtaking production design, immaculate hair and makeup, and the perfect blend of gore and heart. The film is already generating Oscar buzz for Best Picture and a possible Supporting Actor nod for BAFTA nominee Jacob Elordi (\u201cSaltburn,\u201d \u201cEuphoria,\u201d \u201cPriscilla\u201d), who reportedly steals every scene.<\/p>\n Oscar winner Christoph Waltz, Emmy nominee Oscar Isaac, and horror rising star Mia Goth round out the gothic cast. With 85% on Rotten Tomatoes (95% audience), 7.7 on IMDb, and 3.9 on Letterboxd \u2014 what are you waiting for? It\u2019s alive! It\u2019s streaming!<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Florida\u2019s specialty children\u2019s hospitals will receive a cash infusion for cancer research.<\/p>\n<\/a>James Uthmeier announced a successful bust this week. Image via X\/@AGJamesUthmeier.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Blaise Ingoglia is sending some ICE-cold cash to Florida counties to enforce immigration laws.<\/p>\n<\/a>Grant money is going out to counties across the state.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>OIR is bringing the boom.<\/p>\n<\/a>Next stop: Tokyo.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>There\u2019s a one-in-a-million chance this is a good Christmas gift.<\/p>\n<\/a>FWC didn\u2019t send a snap of Alberto Maza, so enjoy this pic of nesting shorebirds instead. Image via FWC.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Felicia Robinson\u2019s bill would expand after-hours access to health care for Medicaid recipients.<\/p>\n<\/a>Jervonte Edmonds\u2019 bill will help some Floridians get their first homes.<\/p>\n<\/a>Gallop Franklin is giving his CGM bill another shot.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>That\u2019s a lovely shade of blue. Stock image via Adobe.<\/p>\n<\/a>FAMU College of Law Students Visit The Hague, Netherlands. Image via FAMU.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>FSU is one of the first institutions in the country to offer the Google People Management Essentials course. Adobe Stock Image via FSU.<\/p>\n<\/a>TSC is on the up and up.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>Predator is back. Image via AP.<\/p>\n