Lawmakers shielded in redistricting fight

A panel of federal judges blocked an attempt by plaintiffs’ attorneys to depose the Republican leaders, including former Senate President Wilton Simpson and former House Speaker Chris Sprowls, in a lawsuit that alleges the redistricting plan intentionally discriminated against Black voters. More from the News Source of Florida.

Post-Hurricane Ian: Funding rejected for Florida fishermen

Florida fishermen all around the state are on the edge of their seats, hoping to gain some good news about the fishing industry's future. Those in Lee County are furious that the federal agency NOAA Fisheries has rejected DeSantis’ fishery disaster request. In late September 2022, Hurricane Ian destroyed nearly all of Lee County, which led to mass destruction of the fishing industry within and around Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, and Pine Island Sound. The western side of Florida has been devastated by the damage that Ian had caused. More from the National Fisherman.

Disney still has plans to spend billions in Florida despite its battle with DeSantis

Despite its battle with Gov. Ron DeSantis, Disney remains committed to the state of Florida. Job creation and project committments have been repeated by CEO Bob Iger and parks chief Josh D’Amaro over the past few months, as tensions between Disney and Florida lawmakers have continued to ratchet up. The fight has taken on even more significance now that DeSantis is officially running for president. More from CNBC.

Assaulting hospital workers will soon lead to harsher penalties

Starting Oct. 1, 2023, assaulting or battering or hospital workers will result in stiffer charges than doing so to other members of the populace. In Florida, assault is a second-degree misdemeanor, while battery typically is punishable as a first-degree misdemeanor. However, punishment for those acts is elevated when committed against people of certain professions, including police, firefighters and emergency medical care providers. More from the Florida Politics.

Port Canaveral boasts $6.1 billion economic impact for Florida

According to a study published on Wednesday by the firm Business Research & Economic Advisors (BREA), the port has a $6.1 economic impact in the state of Florida — an increase from about $3 billion seen in 2018, the last time the firm did an assessment. Port Canaveral also contributed $189.5 million in state and local taxes, the study showed. More from the Spectrum News.

Business Beat - Week of May 26th

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