Tuesday's Afternoon Update
Citizens' policies dip below 1 million
Citizens Property Insurance Corp. announced Monday that efforts to allow private companies to take out bunches of policies at a single time contributed to the reduction, and that the start of a clearinghouse last month to shop new policies to select carriers will further reduce the number. More at the Orlando Sentinel and the Fort Myers News-Press.
Gas prices stable, but big increase is expected
Gas prices have been fairly stable so far this year, but AAA is predicting that they could rise close to 50 cents this spring, peaking at about $3.75. Gas prices changed little over the past week. Nationally, the average stayed at $3.28. In Florida, it dropped 2 cents to $3.31. More at the Florida Times-Union.
Lawmaker: Shift Florida Lottery Into Gaming Commission
As lawmakers look at overhauling the state’s gambling landscape, a new gaming commission could include a shift of management for the 25-year-old Florida Lottery. Sen. Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, on Monday suggested the Department of Lottery be placed under a proposed five-member gaming commission that would be appointed by the governor. More at CBS Miami.
Questions about Jacksonville's natural gas boom
The sudden interest in building and operating liquid natural gasification plants in Jacksonville raises a natural question: Why here and why now? People in the know aren’t sure exactly why Jacksonville is leading the LNG pack on the country’s East Coast, but clearly the port makes Jacksonville an attractive place to produce LNG. More at the Jacksonville Business Journal.
Dominican, Florida companies to talk $2.5B in trade
On Feb. 23 Dominican Republic will host a delegation of 130 business leaders from 32 companies in Florida, the Caribbean nation’s main trading partner. More at Dominican Today.