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Profit Over Pupils? For-Profit Dynamics in Florida’s Charter Schools

Profit Over Pupils? For-Profit Dynamics in Florida’s Charter Schools

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The Rise of For-Profit Management in Florida’s Charter Schools

In Florida, the line between non-profit charter schools and for-profit management is increasingly blurred. Although charter schools are required to operate as non-profits, many engage for-profit firms to manage their operations. These companies profit by collecting management fees and through leasing arrangements for school facilities. Often, the management firm itself or a related real estate entity owns the property, effectively making the school’s management company its landlord as well. These financial arrangements are funded by the per-student allocations provided by state legislation, with some schools paying over $1 million annually in lease payments alone, as highlighted by the nonprofit research institute Integrity Florida. 

Carol Burris, Executive Director of the Network for Public Education, notes that about half of all Florida charter schools are operated by for-profit organizations. Notable entities like Academica and Charter Schools USA, which originate from Florida, dominate the charter landscape, raising concerns about the influence of profit motives on educational quality. Moreover, smaller for-profit chains, managing fewer than 10 schools, are also prevalent in the state.

Reports and investigations have revealed instances where for-profit management companies exert substantial control over charter schools’ day-to-day operations, sometimes funneling a significant portion of the schools’ revenue into fees or lease payments to related entities. 

A February 2020 report by the LeRoy Collins Institute further reveals that over 40% of Florida’s charter schools are run by for-profit Education Management Organizations (EMOs), a rate much higher than the national average. 

The prevalence of for-profit Education Management Organizations (EMOs) in Florida, particularly notable in Miami-Dade County, where such entities manage 77% of charter schools as of 2020, adds a complex layer to the ongoing debate about the allocation of public education funds. Critics are concerned about the transparency and accountability of public funds, especially given instances where state education dollars might benefit the for-profit entities more directly than the students.

Burris also notes the involvement of real estate developers in the charter school sector is particularly noteworthy. For instance, Academica, founded and still owned by real estate developers, exemplifies this trend. Burris highlights an intriguing case involving The Villages, where a charter school exclusive to its employees ensures their continued employment. Additionally, the establishment of the Ina A. Cohen Charter School, financed by a family foundation linked to the community’s builders, raises questions about financial entanglements and interests.

Finally, Burris underscores the concerning trend of Florida’s inadequate funding for public schools, as highlighted by the Education Law Center. “Florida does a terrible job funding its public schools by all their research standards,” Barris states. “By starving its public schools, the Florida legislature is driving families into charter schools, leaving the neediest students as well as those with serious learning disabilities behind in the underfunded public schools.” 

 

Charter School Closures and Financial Instability 

 

As of May 10, at least 491 charter schools have closed in Florida since 1998, including 15 in Brevard County. These closures hint at underlying challenges within the charter school system, sparking concerns about their long-term viability and the oversight mechanisms in place to safeguard educational standards and public investment. They also mean that taxpayer funds, once allocated to these privately owned entities for educational purposes, cannot be recouped. 

 

The Florida Auditor General’s latest report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, uncovers several pressing issues within the charter school sector, casting a spotlight on the financial instability that plagues some of these institutions. An analysis of 688 schools revealed that 47 were grappling with significant financial issues, and 15 were dire enough to raise serious alarms. Perhaps more concerning is the pattern of repeated mistakes, indicating a systemic failure to address and rectify ongoing financial mismanagement.

 

Additionally, the report highlighted that 51 charter schools operated at a loss during that fiscal year. Four schools’ viability was under question due to financial troubles. A critical issue identified in the report was a lack of transparency. Some schools failed to adequately disclose important financial information, such as budgets and spending reports. 

 

The State of Florida has recently announced plans to strengthen charter school oversight. The Department of Education announced plans to develop a rule to implement charter school oversight measures approved over the last two years. This initiative aims to address the financial instability and lack of transparency identified in the Auditor General’s report. The proposed rule will focus on charter school sponsors, ensuring they oversee the schools’ finances effectively and uphold participation in a state accountability system. A “standard monitoring tool” is in the works to facilitate annual site reviews of charter schools. 

 

Influence of Lobbying and Contributions on Education Policy 

 

According to a 2018 report by Integrity Florida, the charter school industry has played a significant role in shaping education policy through lobbying efforts and political contributions. From 1998 to 2016, the industry spent over $13 million on influencing state education policy, with the aim of legislating changes to expand and financially support charter schools. 

 

One of the most telling instances of this influence was the passage of House Bill 7069 in 2017, which helped expand charter schools by easing the process of opening new schools and mandating revenue sharing from traditional public schools to charter schools for capital projects. 

 

Governor DeSantis’s recent signing of HB 1285 also simplifies the process of converting underperforming public schools into charter schools. This law mandates that any public school receiving consecutive low-performance evaluations be designated as a “turnaround school.” If school districts fail to improve these schools, they are required to contract with a charter school operator by October 1 of the final year of control. 

 

HB 1285 also streamlines the negotiation process between school districts and charter school operators. Key provisions ensure that new charter schools give enrollment preference to students from the previous school’s zone and operate at the same grade levels as the public school they replace. These charter schools are also exempt from paying rent for the facility, and school districts are prohibited from imposing administrative fees. 

 

Financial records from Transparency USA highlight the scale of contributions by prominent industry players. Charter Schools USA, for instance, contributed over $1.4 million across the past three election cycles in the Sunshine State. The Florida Department of State Division of Elections records also reveal specific contributions to key members of the Senate Committee on Education Pre-K-12. In 2022, Charter Schools USA made strategic donations of $1,000 each to three committee members: Senator Corey Simon, Representative Alexis Maria Calatayud, and Representative Jay Collins, all part of the Republican Party and influential in educational legislative matters. 

 

The Florida Federation for Children also plays a critical dual role through its PAC and ECO. The PAC focuses on direct political contributions and campaigning, with over $1.3 million in contributions and $1.4 million in expenditures in 2020, and more than $1.9 million contributed with around $1.7 million spent in 2022. In contrast, the ECO, which focuses on broader election communication efforts, spent about $715,000 in 2018 and $28,000 in 2020. Charter Schools USA has been a notable donor to the PAC, contributing more than $350,000 in 2020 and about $375,000 in 2022. 

Shifting Educational Funds from Public to Charter Schools in Florida

Shifting Educational Funds from Public to Charter Schools in Florida

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 The Future of Charter School Funding 

This article is the second installment of an investigative series on charter schools by Palm Bay Live. Stay tuned for subsequent parts, where we will delve deeper into the intricacies and impact of charter schools in Florida’s education system.

 

Governor DeSantis approved House Bill 1259 last year, which updated how charter schools receive capital outlay funds. This legislation allows for a reduction of funds previously allocated to traditional public schools’ capital expenditures, to now support charter schools. It sets out a phase-out of existing funding restrictions, allowing charter schools to access revenues from the discretionary 1.5 millage local tax. Charter schools must also commit to returning any publicly funded assets to the district in the event of closure. 

 

Proponents argue that the law is a step toward ensuring that charter school students are not disadvantaged in terms of capital outlay funding, which has historically been lower per student compared to traditional public schools. They claim that this approach recognizes the evolving role of charter schools and ensures that funding is student-centered, following students to their chosen public educational institutions. Critics, however, say this shift may impose financial burdens on public school districts. They highlight the risk of diverting essential funds from schools that have longstanding public accountability and infrastructure requirements. 

 

The law is part of a broader legislative effort, including other educational initiatives like HB 891, which pilots year-round schooling in five districts in the 2024-25 school year. This initiative aims to address learning loss and juvenile crime rates that rise with summer temperatures. 

 

Charter Schools and the Battle Over Public Dollars 

 

Funding for Florida’s charter schools, particularly through property taxes, has been a significant area of contention. A 2023 proposal that sparked debate would have required school districts to share local property-tax revenue with charter schools based on the schools’ proportionate share of total school district enrollment. 

 

Charter schools have recently won significant funding battles. In one instance, a court ruled that charter schools in Palm Beach County are entitled to a cut of tax dollars from a property-tax increase approved by voters, which was initially intended for traditional public school safety and teacher pay improvements. In 2022, another appeals court ruled that charter schools are entitled to receive a share of property-tax money approved by voters. 

 

Recently, the conversation around the allocation of these funds took a more contentious turn in Broward County. At the heart of this latest dispute is Manny Diaz, Jr., Florida’s Education Commissioner, who has been a prominent advocate for charter schools. During his tenure as a state lawmaker, Diaz was instrumental in shaping policies that have made Florida a fertile ground for charter school expansion, partly through significant campaign contributions from the school choice sector.

This advocacy has continued into his role as Education Commissioner, where he is now ensuring that charter schools receive millions in public funds — funds initially set aside for traditional public schools in Broward County. The crux of the matter dates back to a tax referendum approved by Broward voters in 2018, aimed at raising funds for school safety and teacher pay improvements. Legal and legislative changes since then have mandated that these funds be shared with charter schools, a move that has led to lawsuits from charter schools demanding their share.

State officials have taken a firm stance on the issue, asserting that Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) owes around $80 million to charter schools in the district. This claim has led to heightened tensions and legal battles, with BCPS arguing that such a payout could severely impact its budget. The state’s response has been unequivocal, with Diaz and the State Board of Education demanding compliance and threatening sanctions for non-compliance, underscoring the ongoing tug-of-war over public education funding in Florida. 

Amid these financial disputes, BCPS is facing significant challenges due to a years-long loss in enrollment, with a decrease of 57,857 students since the 2004/05 school year. During the same period, charter school enrollments have seen a corresponding increase of 26,559 students. This decline has escalated financial pressures, leading to the “Redefining Our Schools” initiative aimed at addressing the issue of under-enrollment and inefficiencies across the district. Under the proposed plans, BCPS has presented a drastic step of closing three schools: Olsen Middle in Dania Beach, Oakridge Elementary in Hollywood, and Broward Estates Elementary in Lauderhill. Additionally, plans for grade reconfiguration at Pines Middle, Hollywood Central Elementary, and Sunland Park Academy, as well as public-private partnerships for Quiet Waters Elementary, Deerfield Beach Elementary, and Tedder Elementary, have been laid out as part of the district’s restructuring efforts.

In a significant shift in education funding, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 1 into law in 2023, dramatically expanding access to school vouchers across Florida. This legislation broadened school voucher access, which can impact the funding landscape for both charter and traditional public schools. By removing income and enrollment limitations, the bill extended voucher eligibility to nearly all Florida families, stirring concerns over the redirection of funds traditionally allocated to public schools.

The expanded school voucher program in Florida, as of 2023, allows all K-12 students to be eligible for private school scholarships, averaging around $7,700. This can cover tuition and other educational expenses like private tutoring. There’s also a provision for homeschooled students, limited to 20,000 this school year. Additionally, there’s a $750 transportation scholarship for public school students attending schools outside their neighborhood. 

PALMBAYPD

Palm Bay Gunshot Victim Airlifted to Local Hospital

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PALM BAY, FLORIDA – At around noon this afternoon, the Palm Bay Police Department received a call about a shooting south of Malabar Road and St Johns Heritage Parkway. Police located an individual with a gunshot wound who was airlifted to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The individual was part of a crew hired to work on some trees in the area west of the city’s shooting ranges. Palm Bay detectives and crime scene investigators are currently on scene working diligently to determine the origin of the bullet and the circumstances surrounding this incident. We can confirm the shooting did not involve any members of the Palm Bay Police Department. The investigation is underway and additional details will be provided as they become available. 

westmelbournepolicedept

West Melbourne Traffic Homicide Investigation – Vehicle vs. Pedestrians

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At approximately 9:01 PM on Sunday, May 19, 2024, West Melbourne Officers responded to US 192 and Meadowlane Avenue regarding a traffic crash involving a vehicle and two pedestrians. Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals, a male and a female laying in the roadway with life-threatening injuries; both individuals were taken to a local area hospital. The male victim, identified as 45 year old Bernard Aloyious Letzinger of West Melbourne succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The female victim is listed in critical but stable condition. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with Law Enforcement. This crash is under investigation as Traffic Homicide Investigators work to determine the cause of the crash.
If anyone has any information about this incident, please contact the West Melbourne Police Department at 321-723-9673.

Compound

Palm Bay Police Remove Large Gathering from “Compound”Palm Bay Police

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Palm Bay, Florida-

Over the past few weeks, there has been a noticeable increase in dangerous and unlawful activities in the area known as the compound. These actions not only violate state law and city ordinances but also pose significant safety risks to participants, pedestrians, and other motorists. This weekend there were hundreds of dirt bikes and other recreational vehicles congregating in this area. Officers responded and were able to disperse the large group, restoring order and safety. Our efforts were focused on ensuring the welfare of residents, pedestrians, and other motorists in the area. While no arrests were made during the initial response, the incident was captured on officer’s body worn cameras and will be used to identify and hold accountable those who choose to return and engage in illegal activities.

The Palm Bay Police Department will continue to have a police presence in this area to deter future incidents.  We urge residents to report any suspicious activity or gatherings to police immediately. Public cooperation is essential in addressing this issue. Furthermore, we will continue to work closely with city officials and our community to develop long-term strategies to prevent illegal activities or gatherings which pose a threat to public safety. We understand the concerns of the community regarding activities in the compound and are committed to taking all necessary actions to address this issue.

How you can help. If you have any information about incidents, please contact the Palm Bay Police Department at 321-952-3456 option 0 or for emergencies 9-1-1. Follow us on social media and attend community meetings to stay updated on our efforts and how you can contribute to keeping our neighborhood safe. We thank you for your cooperation and continued support.

Charter Schools

The Expansion of Florida’s Charter Schools

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This article is the first installment of an investigative series on charter schools by Palm Bay Live. Stay tuned for subsequent parts, where we will delve deeper into the intricacies and impact of charter schools in Florida’s education system.

 

The emergence of charter schools and the expansion of school vouchers are stirring significant debate and shaping the future of schooling in the Sunshine State. With Republican Governor Ron DeSantis at the helm, Florida is witnessing changes in how education is funded, where schools are situated, and who has access to these alternative educational options. 

 

The Evolution and Impact of Charter Schools in Florida 

 

Florida’s charter schools have become an integral part of the state’s educational framework since their inception in 1996. As of the 2022-23 school year, the Sunshine State boasts 726 charter schools across 46 districts, serving a diverse student population of over 382,367. 

 

The student body in Florida’s charter schools is notably diverse, with 71% of students in the 2022-23 school year coming from minority backgrounds. Hispanic students represent the largest group, making up 46% of charter school enrollment, followed by African-American students at 18%.

Despite the competitive and scrutinized process reflected in the fluctuating charter school application approval rates, Florida has seen a steady increase in the number of high-performing charter schools. As of October 2023, there are 231 schools designated as high-performing. 

Charter Schools Overview
                      Charter Schools Overview

Understanding Charter Schools

 

Charter schools aim to provide an alternative to the conventional public school experience, highlighting benefits like reduced class sizes and curricula that cater to specific educational needs. Their expansion is closely tied to the state’s voucher program, which enables families to allocate government funds towards private schooling options, including charter schools.

 

Charter schools in Florida are governed by performance contracts, known as “charters,” which are agreements between the schools’ governing bodies and their sponsoring school districts. These schools are granted operational charters, usually for up to five years, with renewals contingent on their performance outcomes.

 

According to the Florida Department of Education, charter schools welcome students from across their district. However, they can focus their programs on particular groups, such as students of certain ages, those at risk of dropping out, or those who fulfill specific academic criteria set by the school. Specific groups of students, including children of the school’s staff or governing board members, employees of the school’s corporate partners, and students assigned from underperforming schools, can also be given priority to attend charter schools. 

 

Funding for Charter Schools

 

Charter schools receive taxpayer dollars, just like traditional schools, to cover expenses from teacher salaries to educational resources. “Charters have access to additional funding streams from the federal charter schools programs to cover start-up costs, expansions, and facilities,” explains Carol Burris, Executive Director of the Network for Public Education. “However, the original promise that charters would be free from regulation in order to innovate and provide an education at lower cost has not been met in Florida as the state’s politicians have favored the sector over public schools.”

 

Unlike public schools, which are overseen by elected boards, charter schools are governed by nonprofit organizations and, at times, private companies. According to Carol Burris, half of all Florida charter schools are operated by for-profit organizations, including major national chains like Academica and Charter Schools USA. Charter schools are required to report on their educational quality and financial operations to their sponsors. They risk being shut down if they do not achieve their set goals. Just like with their traditional public school counterparts, the Department of Education reviews charter schools’ performance yearly. 

 

Florida’s charter schools receive their primary funding from the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) based on the number of enrolled students. Financial support for these schools encompasses a blend of state and local funds, including discretionary lottery funds and contributions from the school district’s discretionary millage levy. 

In addition to state funding, charter schools may be eligible for capital outlay funding, which can be crucial for securing facilities and initiating operations. This funding can come from both state and federal sources and provides financial support for the establishment and expansion of charter school facilities.

Furthermore, charter schools can benefit from voter-approved local tax referendums, which allocate funds for specific purposes such as campus security expenses and teacher compensation. These referendums, approved by voters in various counties, signify a community commitment to supporting public education initiatives.

Recent legal rulings and legislative measures have further clarified the funding landscape for charter schools in Florida. Courts have mandated that school districts share tax revenue generated by voter-approved referendums with charter schools, ensuring equitable distribution of funds. Additionally, state legislation passed in 2019 specifies that charter schools should receive a proportionate share of property tax dollars for operational needs.

To qualify for capital outlay funding, charter schools must meet specific criteria outlined in state statutes. This includes factors such as being in operation for a minimum of two years, having a governing board established in the state for the same duration, and demonstrating financial stability through annual audits that meet specified standards.

 

Mike Haridopolos

Unexpected Retirement Shakes up Florida’s 8th District Race

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The race for Florida’s 8th Congressional District is heating up following the unexpected retirement announcement of U.S. Representative Bill Posey, 76, on April 26. This retirement, timed just as the filing deadline closed, has sparked intense discussions about its implications for the upcoming election and the choices available to the voters.

Billposey

Posey, who had previously qualified for re-election and received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, cited “circumstances beyond my control” for his abrupt withdrawal. This last-minute decision has cleared the path for former state Senate President Mike Haridopolos, who had quietly filed for the primary earlier that day. Posey quickly endorsed Haridopolos, leaving him without significant opposition from other high-profile Republicans in a district that leans heavily Republican. Forty-five percent of registered voters in the district are Republican compared to 26% Democrats and 28% affiliated with other parties. Posey secured the seat by a substantial margin of nearly 30 points in the 2022 election cycle.

Mike Haridopolos, now positioned as the favored candidate, brings a mixed record into the fray. He is currently the President of MJH Consulting, based in Tallahassee. He served in the Florida House from 2000 to 2003 and in the State Senate from 2003 to 2012, culminating in a leadership role as Senate President. Throughout his tenure in the Florida Senate, Mike Haridopolos championed a distinctly conservative agenda, emphasizing fiscal austerity, education reform, and limiting government expansion.

As Senate President, he was instrumental in balancing Florida’s budget during a $4 billion shortfall without raising taxes or fees. His leadership also saw the passage of the SmartCap amendment, aimed at capping government spending, and the Health Care Freedom Amendment, which opposed federal health care mandates.

Reflecting on his tenure, Haridopolos stated, “My time in the state legislature has prepared me to hit the ground running in Congress and find ways to get things done. As Senate President, I had to work with 39 other Senators, 120 Representatives, and a Governor and Cabinet, all with differing views and priorities, to pass legislation that would benefit Floridians.” 

Mike Haridopolos recently revealed his motivations for running for Congress, directly influenced by Congressman Bill Posey’s retirement. “I am running for Congress because Congressman Posey is retiring and asked me to run,” Haridopolos stated. He views Posey as a mentor whose shoes he aims to fill, bringing legislative and business expertise to tackle critical district issues such as economic improvements, border security, and national defense.

His political career, however, has not been without controversy. He has faced scrutiny, particularly over a controversial $152,000 book deal during his time at Brevard Community College. The deal, negotiated in 2003 with then-college president Thomas Gamble, paid Haridopolos to write “Florida Legislative History and Processes,” a manuscript intended as a college resource. Despite the substantial payout, the project resulted in only one available copy that never reached broader publication as initially intended. This arrangement raised significant questions about the use of taxpayer money and the deliverables associated with such contracts.

Adding to Haridopolos’s controversies is a dispute over property taxes from 2018 related to his $2.525 million home on Lansing Island, which he argued should be reduced due to environmental issues affecting the Indian River Lagoon. Citing the deteriorating condition of the lagoon, which has experienced significant ecological problems, Haridopolos contended that these issues had devalued his property, making the tax assessment unfairly high at the time. This case, reviewed by a special magistrate in 2018, could have set a precedent for property valuations in areas affected by environmental degradation.

Despite some controversies, Haridopolos has garnered significant endorsements, including from Florida Senator Marco Rubio, Florida House Representative Randy Fine, who represents a large portion of Brevard County, and Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey.

Looking ahead, Haridopolos outlined his priorities should he be elected. “My priorities will be to improve our economy, secure our border, protect national security, and put the American Dream back in reach for more families,” he elaborated. He also emphasized the unique aspects of the district that he plans to champion, such as advocating for the space industry—a foundational element of Brevard County’s identity. This includes supporting major local institutions like the Kennedy Space Center and Patrick Space Force Base. Additionally, he stressed the importance of protecting and restoring the Indian River Lagoon, a critical environmental concern for the area.

Haridopolos faces Republican contenders John Hearton of Satellite Beach and Joe Babits of Vero Beach, as well as Democrats Sandy Kennedy of Cocoa and Daniel McDow of West Melbourne. Bill Posey had more than $579,300 in cash on hand before announcing his retirement. In contrast, his potential successors report much smaller amounts: John Hearton holds $98,541, Joseph Babits has $12,628, and Democrat Daniel McDow has amassed $9,180 as of March 31st.

Palm Bay Live reached out to all candidates for comment regarding Mike Haridopolos joining the race following Bill Posey’s unexpected retirement announcement, seeking insights on their platforms and reactions. While responses were limited, Democrat Dan McDow offered a candid assessment of his new opponent.

House seat Candidate Daniel McDow
House Seat Candidate Daniel McDow

“There’s no appreciable difference between running against Bill Posey and running against his chosen replacement, Mike Haridopolos. Both Posey and Haridopolos represent the extreme right of the Republican Party. They are anti-Reproductive Rights, anti-Environment, pro-NRA, and willing to raise the retirement age and cut benefits when it comes to Medicare and Social Security. I stand in stark relief to both of them. To replace Posey with Haridopolos is like rearranging the chairs on the Titanic. It changes nothing,” McDow stated.

McDow is particularly vocal about reproductive rights, an issue he considers the most pressing in the district, particularly in light of Florida’s stringent 6-week abortion ban. He stresses, “I consider Reproductive Rights the most important issue in this election. Florida women and girls are dying as a result of this ban. Voters must both pass Amendment 4 to enshrine the right to abortion in the Florida state constitution and elect me to Congress so I can make sure no national ban is forced down our throats.” Additionally, McDow addresses the affordability crisis, underscoring the importance of financial stability for Floridians. He supports HR 6944, aimed at bolstering the property insurance market, noting, “It’s time federal funds are used to help seniors stay in their homes and help young families qualify for mortgages.”

In contrast, Republican candidates have staked out positions on fiscal and national security concerns. John Hearton calls for a Balanced Budget Amendment and champions smaller government, while Joe Babits focuses on securing the border and implementing congressional term limits. Sandy Kennedy, another Democratic contender, champions a broad agenda that includes reproductive rights and climate action.

Primary elections are scheduled for August 20, with the general election to follow on November 5.

Wawa is celebrating its 60th anniversary today by offering a free cup of coffee size- all day (Tuesday, April 16, 2024).

Wawa giving away free coffee to celebrate 60th anniversary

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Wawa
Wawa is celebrating its 60th anniversary today by offering a free cup of coffee size- all day (Tuesday, April 16, 2024).

Wawa is celebrating its 60th anniversary today by offering a free cup of coffee size- all day (Tuesday, April 16, 2024).  Dubbed “Wawa Day” customers that are not a coffee lover can get Tea, juice, lemonade, and a special birthday cake doughnut for just 60 cents. Wawa opened its first store in Folsom, Pennsylvania, in 1964. The East Coast staple now has more than a thousand locations throughout the country.

floridahouse

Governor DeSantis’ Key Signatures from the 2024 Florida Legislative Session

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Florida’s 2024 legislative session that began on January 9 and ended on March 8 saw a flurry of legislative efforts to reshape the state along more conservative lines. The results were a mixed bag of outcomes. Key legislative initiatives ranged from imposing new regulations on the digital landscape to healthcare reforms aimed at increasing the provider workforce. While some proposed laws, like one to lower the age of buying a rifle from 21 to 18, failed to secure passage, others, such as the legislation raising the age requirements for stripers from 18 to 21, successfully made their way through the legislative process. 

 

Here are the major bills Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law: 

 

HB 3 – Online Protections for Minors

 

In a move stirring considerable debate, Governor DeSantis has signed into law a measure targeting social media usage among minors. This is one of the country’s most restrictive social media bans for minors. Under the law, children younger than 14 will be banned from having their own social media accounts in the state, and those ages 14 or 15 will need parental consent to join a platform. Minors will be banned from “pornographic or sexually explicit” websites, and access to these websites will require age verification, such as facial scans. 

 

Social media platforms will be required to verify users’ ages and integrate content moderation and parental controls into their services. This law, part of a broader effort to shield kids from online risks, raises significant questions about privacy, enforcement, and the balance between protection and restriction. It will take effect on January 1. 

 

HB 49 – Employment

 

HB49 will allow 16- and 17-year-olds in Florida to work over 30 hours a week with a waiver from a parent, guardian, or school superintendent. The legislation, effective July 1, permits teens to work longer on weekends and holidays. It also mandates a 30-minute break for shifts exceeding eight hours. Homeschooled 16- and 17-year-olds and those who attend virtual schools can still work without any of the limitations placed on minors. While Governor DeSantis signed a toned-down version of the bill, critics say longer work hours could negatively impact students’ studies, and some are voicing concerns that teenagers could be used to address labor shortages. 

 

SB 7016, SB 7018, SB 330, SB 1758 – Health Care

 

The “Live Healthy” bill package aims to revamp Florida’s healthcare sector with a $1.5 billion investment over ten years. SB 7016 includes $717 million to increase medical residencies, expand telehealth for minority maternity care, and offer tuition reimbursement for healthcare workers, with a significant portion enhancing Medicaid reimbursement rates. SB 7018 introduces a ten-year loan program for innovative healthcare projects. SB 330 creates a designation for behavioral-health teaching hospitals, and SB 1758 aims to reduce the waiting period for Floridians with disabilities seeking state services. These efforts seek to address the growing need for healthcare workers and improve access to healthcare services across the state.

 

HB 621  – Property Rights

 

Governor Ron DeSantis has enacted a law targeting squatters, making it easier for property owners to have them removed and imposing harsher penalties for squatting. The legislation, effective July 1, allows immediate law enforcement action against squatters and criminalizes the presentation of false property documents. It introduces stringent penalties for those occupying properties without permission, including criminal charges for using false documents to claim property rights. The law specifies offenses ranging from misdemeanors for minor infractions to felonies for causing significant damage or unlawfully advertising property sales or rentals. It also makes it a felony to cause $1,000 or more in damage to the property. Squatting has recently become a national issue. Many states treat squatting as a civil matter, which takes time to resolve. Florida’s new law lets property owners remove squatters without having to go through a formal process. 

 

HB 1365 – Unauthorized Public Camping and Public Sleeping

 

This new homelessness law in Florida restricts the use of public spaces for sleeping and establishing government-run camps with essential services for those in need. Critics argue it lacks long-term housing solutions, while supporters believe it will ensure safer and cleaner public areas. The law, accompanied by a $10 million state fund for implementation, has sparked debate over its potential impacts on the homeless population and the effectiveness of its approach. Florida reported more than 15,480 unsheltered people, which is six percent of the national total, in 2023. 

 

HB 1451 – Identification Documents

 

Under this law, cities and counties will be barred from accepting ID cards or documents knowingly issued to illegal migrants. The new law applies to what are known as “community” ID cards, which can be used to pick children up from schools, go to doctor’s appointments, and adopt animals. This builds upon an existing Florida law that already prohibits local governments from issuing IDs to illegal migrants. 

 

SB 1036 – Reclassification of Criminal Penalties 

Florida has introduced a law escalating penalties for individuals committing crimes after deportation, upgrading charges to the next higher degree of felony, and imposing stricter penalties for crimes aiding drug cartels. This legislation intensifies consequences to address recidivism among deported individuals and combat drug cartel activities.

 

HB 1589 – Driving Without a Valid Driver License

 

This new law seeks to deter driving without a valid license by increasing penalties. It includes a maximum sentence of up to one year for repeat offenders and a mandatory sentence of 10 days in jail for those with three or more violations. The previous maximum sentence for individuals caught without a valid driver’s license was 60 days. This law does not only target U.S. citizens but also illegal migrants. Proponents say that it will deter migrants from coming to Florida out of fear that they will be caught and deported. 

 

SB 304 – Household Moving Services

 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a bipartisan bill, SB 304, into law to combat price gouging in the moving industry. Effective from July 1, the legislation sets strict guidelines for moving companies and brokers, including enhanced documentation and transparent contract requirements, aimed at preventing the withholding of customers’ possessions for additional fees. Violations of these new regulations could lead to fines of up to $50,000. This move follows widespread complaints of predatory practices within the industry, particularly in Florida, and represents a significant step towards consumer protection and industry accountability.

 

SB 676 – Food Delivery Platforms

 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new law, SB 676, to enhance transparency between restaurants and customers using food delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub. The legislation, effective immediately, requires these platforms to improve communication during and after delivery, fully disclose fees, and allow restaurants to reply to customer reviews. It also prohibits altering restaurant prices without consent. With a deadline for full implementation by July 2025, the law introduces fines of up to $1,000 for violations and aims to protect consumer and restaurant rights in the food delivery process.

roadrepair

Palm Bay Road Bond Paving Program Faces Shortfall Amid Progress and Challenges

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Written by-Iulia Lupse, staff writer

In November 2018, Palm Bay’s residents approved a $150 million road repair referendum, financed by property taxes over a 20-year span. This project promised a transformative 8-year, five-phase overhaul of the city’s infrastructure. As the city has already deployed the entire bond amount in three rounds, questions about the program’s financial management have started to surface. Palm Bay Live has contacted city officials for comments, but responses are still pending. Nevertheless, public records and city updates provide a glimpse of the program’s progress and its hurdles.

The City Manager’s office reports the awarding of at least 21 construction contracts across 33 separate units and areas and nine roads. A January 2024 update from Palm Bay City Council indicates that paving in Phase 1 units has been completed. Significant completed projects include Unit 41 and Eldron, Units 31 and 32, and Unit 42 and Garvey Road.

Despite this progress, a closer look at the program’s finances reveals a looming challenge. A November 2024 update indicates that projects completed or under contract have already amounted to more than $93 million, while future projects are estimated to exceed $126 million. The anticipated total cost for all the projects under the Road Bond Paving Program is projected to surpass $220 million. This reveals a shortfall of $70 million beyond the initial bond amount.

                                  Road Bond Paving Update November 2023

 

However, a financial review unveiled by the City Council in January unveiled additional details. The program has achieved a 51% completion rate by paving 404 miles out of the planned 791 miles. According to the latest update, the General Obligation (GO) Road Bond, realized through three separate draws, has amounted to $159 million with interest earnings as of November 2023, contributing to an additional $4 million, bringing the total funding available to $163 million. Projects completed or under contract are now reported at $94 million, leading to a new total estimated expenditure of $220 million. This reveals an updated estimated shortfall of $56 million.

City of Palm Bay City Council Meeting Road Bond Paving Update January 18, 2024
City of Palm Bay City Council Meeting Road Bond Paving Update January 18, 2024

Paving work for Phase 4 includes areas between I-95 and Minton Road, Jupiter Blvd NW and Pace Drive NW, and the area between Emerson Drive and Degroodt Rd SW. Phase 5 plans to target more units, including streets between Minton Rd, Emerson Drive, and Breakwater St SE, as well as streets south of Waco Blvd SE and north of Wyoming Drive SE, among others.

With paving fully completed in Phase 1, the challenges of financing these stages become clear. The January 2024 City Council update hints at inflation, increased material costs, and labor shortages affecting project costs. The city is exploring solutions to address the funding gap, including the adoption of new polymer micro-surfacing techniques awaiting approval from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and leveraging multi-year financing options along with identifying annual sources of recurring revenue. Other considerations include leveraging new General Fund revenues, exploring alternative funding sources like the Local Option Gas Tax and Discretionary Sales Surtax, and asking voters to support more funds through a new bond issuance.

Raising more funds through a new bond vote could directly impact Palm Bay residents through increased taxes. While this strategy aims to secure the necessary funds to complete the Road Bond Paving Program, it may result in higher property taxes or other financial obligations for the community. Such a move would require careful consideration and approval from residents. As Palm Bay navigates these financial hurdles, the road ahead for the Road Bond Paving Program remains uncertain. Palm Bay Live will continue to monitor developments closely, ready to update our readers as new information comes to light.

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