Florida Action Network (FLAN 35) - Statewide Coverage

  JACKSONVILLE, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida continued its push to limit local government authority over certain policies in April. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation targeting local diversity, equity and inclusion programs while also blocking local governments from imposing certain carbon-related taxes. State officials said the measures were intended to prevent local governments from pursuing policies that conflict with statewide priorities. The legislation generated political debate over the balance between state authority and local control. Supporters argued that Florida should maintain consistent policies across communities, while opponents said local governments should retain the ability to address issues specific to their residents. The legislation became part of a broader 2026 effort to reshape the relationship between state government and Florida’s cities and counties. The changes could affect local government policies, spending decisions and future debates over environm...

  TALLAHASSEE, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida officially dedicated Tallahassee International Airport in honor of legendary Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden in April. The airport became known as Bobby Bowden-Tallahassee International Airport as state officials recognized Bowden’s decades-long impact on Florida State University and the Tallahassee community. Bowden built one of college football’s most successful programs during his tenure at Florida State and became one of the most recognizable figures in the state’s sports history. The airport naming gives Bowden a permanent presence at a major gateway to Florida’s capital city. The dedication was also tied to transportation improvements in the Tallahassee area, including work on Capital Circle. State officials said part of the roadway project opened ahead of schedule. The airport name is expected to remain a prominent part of Tallahassee’s identity as the city continues developing its transportation infrastructure. Photo co...

  SOUTH BAY, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida officials announced a major milestone in April for the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir project. State officials said federally funded contracts for the reservoir had been fully executed, allowing construction efforts to move forward with an accelerated timeline. The project is considered an important component of Florida’s long-term Everglades restoration strategy. Officials said the accelerated schedule could allow the reservoir to be completed by 2029, five years earlier than the original timeline. The reservoir is designed to help manage water moving south from Lake Okeechobee while supporting restoration efforts across the Everglades ecosystem. Everglades restoration has remained one of Florida’s largest environmental infrastructure projects. The project also has implications for South Florida communities, agriculture, drinking-water protection and efforts to reduce damaging freshwater discharges. State and federal officials des...

  THE VILLAGES, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Florida SAVE Act creating another major change to the state’s election laws. The legislation focuses on voter eligibility and election administration, with state officials saying the measure is designed to ensure that only eligible citizens participate in Florida elections. The law became part of Florida’s broader effort to strengthen election security and verification procedures. Supporters described the legislation as an election-integrity measure, while voting-rights advocates have raised concerns about how additional verification requirements could affect eligible voters. Florida has continued implementing election-law changes since the 2020 election, making voting procedures a recurring political issue. The 2026 law adds another layer to that debate as Florida prepares for future statewide and national elections. Election officials across the state will be responsible for implementing the new requiremen...