Florida News That Impact You – May 20th, 2021

Florida’s daily rate of COVID-19 cases has now improved for four consecutive weeks dropping from nearly 6,800 a month ago to 3,007 today. Also, the rate of new vaccinations continues to be sluggish. Florida’s now had three straight weeks of more Floridians being vaccinated with the second dose of a vaccine than a first. Plus, 9.7 million Floridians have been vaccinated with at least a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine with 7.7 million who’ve completed a vaccine series. 

A day after passing the state senate by a 38-1 vote, the renegotiated Seminole Compact, with sports gaming, passed with broad bipartisan support in Florida’s House on a 97-17 vote. The bill now goes to Governor DeSantis for his signature, however, the No Casinos group which backed 2018’s Amendment 3 has promised to sue and has articulated their belief it will be struck down in court. Should the legislation withstand legal challenges the effective date is October 15th for sports gaming. 

Florida’s Department of Children and Families has opened the state’s rental assistance program for families behind on their rent due to pandemic-related hardships. $800 million is available through the program. Eligible renters must be Florida rental residents, have a household income at or below 80% of the median income, have evidence of a loss of income during the pandemic, and evidence of risk of losing one’s home. Up to $15,000 per family is available and applicants may apply at OURFlorida.com.

Photo by: Getty Images


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