Florida

Florida Supreme Court Upholds 15-Week Abortion Ban, Setting Stage for More Restrictive Six-Week Ban

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Miami, Florida – The Florida Supreme Court has upheld the state’s ban on most abortions after 15 weeks, paving the way for an even more restrictive ban after just six weeks of pregnancy. This ruling, which was passed with a 6-1 vote, allows the six-week ban that was passed last year to take effect within 30 days, significantly reducing access to abortion services in Florida. In 2022, Florida’s Republican-controlled legislature passed a law banning abortions in the state after 15 weeks, which was subsequently signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis. The law prohibits abortions … Read more

Resolution Reached in Walt Disney Parks and Florida Governor Dispute over Reedy Creek Improvement District Control

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ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — After a prolonged dispute between Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a resolution has finally been reached in their battle over control of the government entity formerly known as Reedy Creek Improvement District. The settlement was announced on March 27, bringing an end to a contentious legal battle. The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), chaired by Charbel Barakat, expressed their eagerness to work with Disney in a meeting held on March 27. The tone of the meeting was amicable, suggesting a fresh start and a commitment … Read more

Jury Recommends Life in Prison for David Marshall Murdock in Florida Murder Case

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BARTOW, Fla. – After being found guilty of first-degree murder, David Marshall Murdock learned that the jury has spared him the death penalty and instead recommended a life sentence in prison. The jury failed to reach the necessary 8-4 majority needed to recommend a death sentence. Murdock, 65, was convicted of killing Lisa Bunce, his former girlfriend, and attempting to kill her friend Sanda Andrews. The tragic events occurred on January 5, 2019, when Bunce was visiting Andrews in Haines City. The two friends frequently traveled between their homes near Toledo, Ohio, and Florida. Murdock, … Read more

Backlash Grows Over Florida Law Excluding Chinese Grad Students from Universities

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Gainesville, Florida – A law in Florida is facing criticism from professors, students, and advocates who believe it may exclude Chinese graduate students from the state’s universities. State Bill 846, which came into effect last July, prohibits the hiring of graduate students from “countries of concern,” including China, the largest source of international students in the state. The law has sparked protests as universities issue offer letters in the spring. Critics argue that the measure poses a threat to academic freedom, scientific advancements, and the state’s education system. They claim it is discriminatory and will … Read more