AGP Executive Report

Governor’s Race Shakeup: Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings suspended his Florida governor campaign after a prostate cancer diagnosis, leaving former U.S. Rep. David Jolly as the top Democrat heading into qualifying. Property Taxes: Florida lawmakers approved DeSantis’ homestead exemption expansion, sending it to voters in November—raising the exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028—while local leaders warn of major service cuts and revenue losses. Gun Rights: Florida AG James Uthmeier announced a settlement declaring the state’s 3-day waiting period unconstitutional, a win celebrated by the NRA. Shark Tourism vs. Ban: Dive operators are pushing back on a federal bill that would ban shark feeding off Florida within 200 miles, arguing it targets conservation-focused businesses. Health & Regulation: The Florida Health Department filed a third complaint against a Ponte Vedra dentist after a patient died during implant treatment, seeking possible license discipline. Local Water Update: A Lee/Collier drought warning was lifted after heavy rain, though conservation is still urged. Sports: UF softball’s season ended in the Super Regional, while Trenton’s Addison Allaire won Gatorade Player of the Year for Florida.

Florida Courts & AI: The Florida Supreme Court is tightening rules after lawyers filed AI-made “hallucinations,” requiring attorneys to verify cited legal authorities and warning sanctions for bad filings. Housing & Growth: A new housing-cost debate is heating up as builders and industry leaders point to regulation and permitting timelines as major drivers, while red-state housing advocates argue faster development and fewer roadblocks help keep supply moving. Cuba Pressure in Florida Politics: Florida’s political fight over Cuba is back in the spotlight as new U.S. sanctions target Cuban leaders and the Florida Green Party condemns the “blockade” and threats to Cuban sovereignty. World Cup Security & Local Prep: South Florida is ramping up security and planning for the World Cup surge, with officials focused on protecting visitors and preventing ticket scams. Business in Miami: Peter Thiel’s family office reportedly signed a record-high Miami lease at 830 Brickell, underscoring continued high-end office demand. Public Health & Tech: Google is seeking approval to release millions of mosquitoes in California and Florida as part of a Wolbachia-based population control plan.

Property Taxes (Ballot Fight): Florida counties are scrambling to model the impact of a November referendum that would expand homestead exemptions and cap future property tax increases, with estimates showing big potential revenue gaps for places like Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. Public Safety (AI): Florida’s push for AI rules is colliding with stalled federal action as the state’s top lawyer points to public-safety risks and urges lawmakers to step in. Wildlife & Safety (Sharks): Florida again leads the U.S. in shark bites, with 2025 data showing the state accounted for 44% of unprovoked bites, and officials reminding beachgoers that “shark bite season” runs with peak summer crowds. Crime (USF Double Stabbing): Hillsborough County identified the suspect in a double stabbing near USF as investigators continue to connect the case to a separate death investigation. Tourism & Security (World Cup): South Florida is gearing up for a World Cup visitor surge, with federal officials describing Super Bowl-style security steps around stadiums and airspace. Business (Hospice Expansion): VITAS announced new inpatient hospice openings in Port St. Lucie and Manatee County to expand end-of-life care access. Tech & Health (Mosquito Plan): A Google-linked effort to release millions of treated mosquitoes in Florida is drawing fresh public concern as regulators weigh approvals.

Property Tax Showdown: Florida lawmakers approved a major property tax cut plan headed to the November ballot, with supporters promising relief and critics warning it could gut local services and shift power away from cities. Public Health Tech: Google’s plan to release up to 32 million sterilized mosquitoes in Florida and California is raising questions about how tech could reshape mosquito control and disease prevention. Invasive Species Alert: Scientists warn an invasive Asian swamp eel spreading from Tampa to Miami could be even more damaging to Florida’s food web than Burmese pythons. Space Coast Watch: SpaceX is set to try again for a Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral, aiming to send 29 Starlink satellites into orbit. UF Leadership: Stuart Bell, the sole finalist for UF president, met with campus groups ahead of trustee interviews June 10. Local Governance: Escambia’s West Florida Public Library board vacancies are sparking concerns about quorum and potential budget impacts. Consumer Mood: A University of Florida survey finds Florida consumer sentiment fell in May as worries about unemployment and gas prices grow.

Auto Insurance Relief: Florida’s auto insurance market is stabilizing after 2023 reforms, with major insurers filing multiple rate decreases and the state hitting its lowest personal auto liability loss ratio in 15 years. Courts & Consumer Safety: A Florida mom filed a federal lawsuit against Campbell’s and Walmart, alleging contaminated SpaghettiOs with worm-like organisms made her and her child sick. Public Safety & Crime: Southwest Florida is stepping up patrols at teen gatherings after social-media-fueled violence, while Orange County deputies shot and killed a woman armed with a knife; deputies are on paid leave as the state investigates. Health Fraud: A clinic owner was convicted in a $52M Medicare fraud scheme tied to a drug diversion operation. Hurricane Prep: Gov. DeSantis urged Floridians to prepare for the 2026 Atlantic season as officials say no Atlantic development is expected in the next week. Politics & Education: Polk State trustees unanimously named Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas as president, and UF’s sole finalist Stuart Bell visited campus amid debate over DEI. Local Life: Miami Catholic schools won $15M in state security funding, and Camping World Stadium will host the Pop-Tarts Bowl, Citrus Bowl, and Florida Blue Florida Classic during renovations.

Florida Politics: President Trump nominated Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez to be ambassador to Brazil, with the pick still needing Senate confirmation. Diplomacy & Florida Ties: Trump also nominated former Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago. State Budget: Florida lawmakers passed a $114.5B budget after a contentious, overtime-heavy process, with Democrats criticizing voucher spending and Republicans touting education and public safety investments. Property Taxes: Voters will decide in November on a major homestead tax break/property tax cut plan, and local leaders in Southwest Florida warn it could force service cuts or higher rates. Public Safety & Health: Florida scientists reported the first documented case of vultures eating invasive Burmese python eggs in Broward County. Space Coast Watch: NASA says Blue Origin’s damaged New Glenn launchpad may not be restored until 2028, threatening Moon timeline plans. Weather & Preparedness: FloodReadyFlorida.com launched to help residents prepare for inland flooding ahead of hurricane season. Business: Fortegra’s acquisition by South Korea’s DB Insurance is complete, with the Jacksonville-based insurer keeping its leadership and operating independently.

Property Taxes (Ballot Fight): Florida lawmakers passed Gov. Ron DeSantis’ sweeping homestead exemption expansion, sending a constitutional amendment to the November ballot—raising the exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with passage requiring 60% approval. Local officials warn the cuts could hit fire rescue, schools, and road maintenance, and Escambia County estimates $124.8 million in losses over two years. Local Accountability (Daytona Beach): The Florida AG issued a new subpoena to Daytona Beach tied to COVID-19 spending and “retroactive” changes to City Commission agendas. Public Safety (Storms): A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for parts of East Central Florida, including New Smyrna Beach and Ponce Inlet, with damaging winds, hail, lightning, and heavy rain possible. Space & Industry: Space Florida backed Seagate Space to prototype offshore launch capability, while SpaceX is set for a Starlink launch from Florida on June 3. Crime & Courts (OpenAI): Acting AG Todd Blanche said the Trump administration is scrapping a $1.8 billion compensation fund after GOP backlash and court setbacks. Transportation Tragedy: A Volusia County toll booth worker was killed when a pickup crashed into the booth and drove onto the beach; the driver was detained under the Baker Act.

Property Tax Showdown: Florida lawmakers are back in a special session to advance Gov. Ron DeSantis’ plan to cut or eliminate property taxes for primary homes, but cities warn it could gut budgets for schools, police, fire, and other core services. AI Lawsuit: Florida became the first state to sue OpenAI and Sam Altman, alleging ChatGPT was marketed as safe while allegedly enabling self-harm, violence, and criminal harm—setting up a major legal fight. Public Safety—Hurricane Prep: FPL is urging residents to get hurricane plans and kits ready now, including evacuation checks, backup power, and medically essential arrangements. Health Alert: Officials warn flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus infections are rising earlier this year as warm water approaches. Space Update: Blue Origin’s New Glenn test explosion damaged a Cape Canaveral launchpad, raising questions about timelines for NASA and Amazon missions. Local Brief: Crews responded to a car fire on I-75 near Tucker’s Grade in Charlotte County; no injuries reported.

OpenAI Lawsuit: Florida AG James Uthmeier filed a first-in-the-nation civil suit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, alleging ChatGPT was marketed while serious safety risks were hidden—especially for children—and pointing to cases where attackers allegedly used the chatbot during planning. Property Taxes: Lawmakers kicked off a special session in Tallahassee to shape Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “Save Our Homes” push, which would expand the homestead exemption and set up a path toward eliminating property taxes on primary residences—while critics warn local services and schools could take a hit. Local Impact: A new Florida “Save Our Homes” calculator is already letting homeowners estimate savings, but counties and cities are bracing for revenue gaps. Public Safety: Florida Highway Patrol says a Charlotte County driver left a 17-year-old bicyclist seriously injured after a crash; toxicology results are pending. Health & Addiction: Florida reports a sharp drop in fentanyl-related overdose deaths, even as treatment demand remains steady. Space Coast: A Blue Origin New Glenn static-fire explosion at Cape Canaveral damaged the launch pad and could affect future missions. Everglades Conservation: Registration opened for the Florida Python Challenge (July 10–19) with $25,000 in prizes for removing invasive Burmese pythons.

Hurricane Season Prep: NOAA is forecasting a below-normal Atlantic season, but Florida utilities are still gearing up for the worst as June 1 kicks off hurricane season. Property Taxes: A special session is underway as Gov. Ron DeSantis pushes homestead property tax relief, with voters split on how far lawmakers should go and local officials warning about funding gaps. Mosquito Fight: Google is seeking federal approval to release up to 32 million Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes in Florida and California, while EPA review and public objections are already in motion. Public Safety: Clearwater police say a 17-year-old was shot during a chaotic teen gathering at Clearwater Beach, with multiple people detained and more incidents reported. Local Politics & Business: A Florida GOP strategist announced a new book on winning without big-money donors, while a prominent businessman endorsed a congressional candidate in Florida’s 11th district. Crime & Courts: A former prosecutor weighs in on Lynette Hooker’s disappearance, focusing on a reported sailboat AIS shutdown during the night she vanished.

Property Taxes: Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing a special session to expand Florida’s homestead exemption up to $250,000, with the goal of phasing out property taxes for many homeowners—while local officials warn it could slash funding for services like mosquito control. Hurricane Preparedness: Florida lawmakers and federal/state/local officials are urging residents to get ready now for the 2026 season, including a tele-town hall with Sen. Rick Scott and Rep. Randy Fine on June 4. Space Coast Watch: Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket explosion at Cape Canaveral has raised fresh concerns for Bezos’ Moon plans and NASA, with damage reported to the launch pad. Courts & Politics: A Florida judge ordered review of a Trump IRS settlement tied to a proposed $1.8 billion compensation fund, as retired judges argue it involved collusion and fraud on the court. South Florida Food & Culture: North Miami’s Mutra became the first kosher restaurant to earn a Michelin Star. Local Life: A Flagler County Taco Bell incident led to an arrest after a man exposed himself while carrying pet fish—then deputies helped rehome the animals. Sports: Miami’s NCAA baseball run ended with a 9-6 loss to Troy in the regional elimination game.

HIV Care Restored: Florida lawmakers reversed this year’s ADAP cuts, restoring eligibility to 400% of the federal poverty level, bringing back dropped meds like Biktarvy, and adding $75 million plus independent oversight. Public Safety: A multi-agency rescue in Southwest Florida found 21 missing and endangered children across Lee, Collier and Hendry counties, with at least one report of trafficking; authorities are investigating. Aviation Scrutiny: A small plane crash shortly after takeoff from North Perry Airport injured two women and reignited calls for stronger safety oversight after dozens of past accidents tied to the airport. Space & Defense: The U.S. Space Force awarded Blue Origin a National Reconnaissance Office launch task order from Cape Canaveral hours before a New Glenn explosion, while support for the rocket continues. Policy Watch: Florida now requires a no-cost long-term anchoring permit for vessels anchored 14+ days in Florida waters within 30 days. Weather: Central Florida braces for more humid storms with heavy downpours and gusts possible through next week. Politics: Voting-rights advocate Desmond Meade filed to run for governor.

Property & HOA Law: A new legal Q&A explains how Florida condo boards can suspend voting rights for owners more than 90 days delinquent (condos need over $1,000 owed; HOAs don’t have that dollar floor). Maternal Health: UF/IFAS-backed reporting says Florida has a high share of pregnant people getting no or late prenatal care, with major risks for mom and baby. Public Safety: A multi-agency rescue operation pulled 21 missing and endangered young people from Lee, Collier and Hendry counties, including at least one reported trafficking case. State Budget & Health Care: Florida lawmakers passed a nearly $115B budget that includes restoring $75M for HIV medication access through 2027. Insurance & Housing Costs: A report says Florida’s home insurance market is stabilizing after reform, with underwriting gains returning. Space Coast Watch: Blue Origin’s New Glenn explosion at Cape Canaveral raised questions about damage and delays for future launches. Weather: Drought in Naples–Fort Myers eased from extreme to severe, but residents are still waiting on heavier rainy-season downpours. Crime: A SWAT raid in DeLand led to the arrest of a man accused of possessing child exploitation material.

State Budget: Florida lawmakers overwhelmingly passed a $114.5 billion state spending plan Friday, ending a special session that dragged on more than two months after the regular session failed to produce a deal. Education Policy: The budget also expands state officials’ power over general education course lists, a move tied to the DeSantis administration’s pushback on certain sociology classes. Space Coast Shock: Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a prelaunch hotfire/static-fire test at Cape Canaveral, raising fears of delays for Artemis and other missions. South Florida Politics: Rep. Frederica Wilson, 83, confirmed she won’t seek re-election, ending a long run as a major Miami-area figure. Public Safety & Courts: A Pensacola attorney’s Florida Bar license was suspended after his 2024 arrest on child sex abuse material charges. Local Crime: A Florida woman faces manslaughter charges after her neighbor’s dogs fatally mauled a woman on a walk. Weather/Environment: Jupiter Island faces severe erosion and flooding risks, with state reports warning the ocean could breach nearby areas. Economy & Cost of Living: Tomato prices are up nearly 40% year over year, with tariffs and weather-related supply issues blamed. Sports: Florida baseball advanced in the Gainesville Regional with a walk-off win over Rider, setting up the next matchup.

Property Taxes in Focus: Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a plan to boost Florida’s homestead exemption from $50,000 to $250,000, with a path to eventually eliminate property taxes on primary homes, and called lawmakers into a special session starting June 1 with a November ballot vote. Local Impact Worries: County leaders warn the shift could slash funding for core services and force new fees to cover gaps. Space Coast Shock: Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a hotfire static test at Cape Canaveral, with the company citing an “anomaly” and saying no injuries occurred; repairs could take months. Environment & Safety: A federal judge paused an expanded recreational red snapper season in the Southeast Atlantic after a lawsuit challenged the change. Health Access: Planned Parenthood’s Gainesville clinic will permanently close June 26 due to low patient numbers, with care moving to telehealth and other locations. Politics & Elections: State Attorney Amira Fox won a third term unopposed in Florida’s 20th Judicial Circuit. Sports: UCF opens its first official 2027 recruit visit weekend, while Florida baseball hosts Rider in the Gainesville Regional kickoff.

Property Taxes & Local Services: Gov. DeSantis’ plan to overhaul Florida’s homestead property taxes is headed to a special session, but lawmakers and local leaders are already raising hard questions about what replaces lost revenue for schools, public safety, and other services. Conservation Funding: Florida lawmakers are set to vote on a budget proposal that leaves Florida Forever—key to buying conservation land—without new dedicated funding, while advocates warn it could weaken the state’s wildlife corridor goals. Traffic Stop, Disability Awareness: A Palm Beach County citation over a viral “phone in the right hand” traffic stop was dismissed after the driver proved she doesn’t have a right hand, spotlighting disability awareness and training. AM Radio in Cars: Rep. Gus Bilirakis is pushing AM radio protections in vehicles, arguing it’s a crucial emergency lifeline when TV and internet go down. Business & Growth: A hyperscale data center is proposed for Lakeland, and Florida’s insurance and towboat sectors continue to feel cost pressure as hurricane season nears.