SUMMARY: A federal judge is considering whether to block Florida’s House Bill 1205, which critics argue restricts citizens’ ability to propose constitutional amendments. The law shortens the time for submitting petition signatures, introduces new criminal penalties for petition gatherers, and tightens rules for advocacy groups. Opponents, including Florida Decides Healthcare, argue it violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments. Supporters, including Governor Ron DeSantis, claim it addresses fraud in the petition system. The law’s effects have been severe, with petition circulation dropping significantly. The judge, Mark Walker, has not given a timeline for his ruling .

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SUMMARY: NOAA has released its outlook for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting an above-average season. They forecast 13 to 19 named storms, with 6 to 10 becoming hurricanes and 3 to 5 intensifying into major hurricanes. This expectation is based on neutral conditions in the Eastern Pacific, meaning no El Niño or La Niña, alongside reduced wind shear, which allows storms to strengthen more easily. Atlantic sea surface temperatures are predicted to be above average, though not as high as last year’s record. Forecasters emphasize that despite the numbers, even one powerful hurricane can have significant impacts.

NEXT Weather Chief Meteorologist and Hurricane Specialist Ivan Cabrera breaks down why NOAA is calling for an above average season.

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SUMMARY: Dissident Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, banned from traveling since 2009, finally attended a Cannes Film Festival premiere after over 15 years, with his new film “It Was Just an Accident.” Despite imprisonment and a travel ban, Panahi continued making acclaimed films clandestinely, often reflecting his experiences and political resistance. The new film depicts a former prisoner confronting his torturer, exploring themes of revenge and forgiveness inspired by Panahi’s own and fellow detainees’ stories. Panahi remains committed to filmmaking despite risks and rejects government censorship, expressing hope for Iran’s fight for freedom. He plans to return to Tehran after Cannes.

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