SUMMARY: Several Democratic Florida state lawmakers filed a lawsuit against Governor Ron DeSantis and FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie after being denied entry to the “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention facility. The legislators argue the site qualifies as a state detention facility, granting them legal visitation rights. FDEM countered, stating their authority applies only to legislative committees, not individual lawmakers, and the facility isn’t a state correctional institution under Florida law. The suit seeks a court order forcing immediate access. The governor’s office called the lawsuit frivolous, noting an invitation had been extended for a weekend tour.

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SUMMARY: Despite rising economic anxiety, UCF economist Sean Snaith forecasts no recession, predicting continued but slower growth amid trade policy uncertainties. Florida’s economy faces potential threats from geopolitics, domestic policies, and hurricanes, yet core sectors like tourism remain strong. By 2028, Florida’s nominal GDP is expected to surpass \$2 trillion, nearly 20% higher than last year. Economic growth rate will slow as the state nears full employment, resulting in modest labor and job growth. Key job sectors with steady growth include education and health services (1.9%), leisure and hospitality (1.5%), construction (1.4%), financial services (1.2%), and government (0.8%). Real personal income growth will average 2.9%, slightly above national rates. Per capita incomes are forecasted to rise across Florida’s metro areas by 6.1% to 10.1% through 2028.

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The post ‘It’s not easy:’ Here’s what could be coming for Florida’s economy appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: The IRS announced a new interpretation allowing pastors to endorse political candidates from the pulpit without risking their church’s tax-exempt status, softening enforcement of the 1954 Johnson Amendment. Conservatives praise the move as a defense of religious freedom, while some progressive religious leaders see it as leveling the playing field. However, tax and legal experts warn it could politicize churches and jeopardize their missions. Many faith leaders, especially in communities of color, remain cautious about potential church-state entanglement. The IRS clarified this applies to “good faith” religious communications, not outright campaign intervention.

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