Florida Action Network (FLAN 35) - Statewide Coverage

  TALLAHASSEE, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida’s economy reached a new employment milestone in April, according to state officials announcing economic data in May. Florida’s total nonagricultural employment reached approximately 10 million jobs, reflecting continued growth across multiple sectors. State officials pointed to aerospace, tourism, construction, technology and other industries as important parts of the state’s economic expansion. The employment numbers came as Florida continued attracting corporate investment and new development. The state’s population growth has also contributed to demand for workers, housing, transportation and public services. Economists and business leaders continue watching whether Florida can maintain strong job growth while dealing with rising costs and the challenges associated with rapid population growth. The employment milestone provides another indicator of the size and continued expansion of Florida’s economy.

  DAVIE, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida officials announced the results of several major immigration enforcement operations across the state in May. State officials said the operations were conducted with federal law enforcement partners and resulted in hundreds of arrests involving people described by authorities as criminal illegal immigrants, repeat immigration violators and other offenders. Florida has expanded its participation in federal immigration enforcement programs and increased coordination between state and federal agencies. The operations reflect Florida’s broader strategy of assisting federal immigration authorities. Immigration enforcement remains one of the most politically divisive issues in Florida, with supporters emphasizing public safety and critics raising concerns about due process and the treatment of immigrants. State officials said additional enforcement operations were expected as Florida continued its cooperation with federal agencies. Photo courtesy VOX...

  MIAMI, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida enacted new restrictions targeting foreign influence and certain business relationships involving countries identified by the state as countries of concern. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation in May addressing foreign interference, government partnerships and disclosure requirements. State officials said the measure is designed to protect critical infrastructure, public institutions and Florida’s economy from hostile foreign influence. The law places additional restrictions on certain agreements and relationships involving countries of concern. Supporters said the legislation strengthens state security, while critics have questioned how broadly the restrictions could affect businesses, universities and other organizations. The issue has become increasingly important as Florida continues reviewing foreign ownership and investment involving sensitive industries. The new law adds to a series of measures Florida has adopted concerning foreign in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Blue Origin announced a $600 million expansion of its Rocket Park campus at Cape Canaveral in May. The project includes an approximately 830,000-square-foot upper-stage manufacturing facility and is expected to support about 500 aerospace jobs. State officials said the new jobs will carry average salaries above $98,000. The expansion adds to Blue Origin’s growing presence on Florida’s Space Coast and strengthens the state’s position as a major center for commercial aerospace manufacturing. The company has invested billions of dollars in Florida and works with hundreds of suppliers across the state. The expansion comes as competition in the commercial space industry continues to intensify. For Brevard County, the investment could mean additional employment, construction activity and demand for local businesses. Florida officials continue to promote aerospace as one of the state’s key high-wage industries.

  FERNANDINA BEACH, Florida ( FLAN 35 ) — Florida anglers received expanded recreational red snapper opportunities in May as the state announced new 2026 seasons. Florida announced a 39-day Atlantic red snapper season and a 140-day Gulf red snapper season. The Atlantic season represented a major increase from the previous two-day federal season. State officials said the expanded opportunities could benefit recreational anglers and coastal communities that depend heavily on fishing tourism. Florida’s recreational fishing industry contributes to local economies through charter businesses, marinas, bait shops, restaurants and tourism. The state also received approval to manage the recreational Atlantic red snapper fishery in state and federal waters. Officials said the expanded season was designed to provide additional opportunities while maintaining management of the fishery. The announcement was welcomed by many anglers across Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Photo courtesy: NOAA...