Minimum Wage: Florida’s minimum wage climbs to $15 per hour for non-tipped workers on Sept. 30, 2026 (tipped workers rise to $11.98), continuing the voter-approved step increases that started in 2025. Legal Crackdown on Online Gambling: Florida AG James Uthmeier filed lawsuits targeting sweepstakes casino operators including Stake and Chumba, arguing the “sweepstakes” model is real-money gambling that dodges state licensing and consumer protections. Small-Business Red Tape: Sen. Rick Scott is pushing a federal package aimed at cutting regulations and easing permitting and lending rules for small businesses. Politics Watch: Florida’s Democratic Senate primary upset is reshaping the race: analysts moved it back to “Safe Republican” for the general election, with Angie Nixon set to face Sen. Ashley Moody. Public Health: Wakulla County received a rabies advisory after a confirmed case in a fox; residents are urged to avoid contact with wild animals. Weather: Central Florida heat advisories continue, but storms are expected to bring some relief later Thursday. Food Safety: FDA upgraded a Publix frozen berry recall to its highest risk level over possible E. coli contamination. Local Life: U.S. News named Pine View School in Osprey the top high school in Florida.