Florida

Overdose Deaths Fall in New York, Florida

Overdose deaths are declining in both states, but the pace differs: New York’s fell about 8% in the year ending May 2026, a slowdown after a much steeper two-year decline, while Florida reported fentanyl deaths down nearly 60% from 2023 to 2025. Florida officials credit enforcement efforts, including the S.A.F.E. grant program, though the figures show reported declines rather than proving the program caused them.

SUV Crashes Into Florida Daycare, Injuring Five

A 2003 Honda CR-V crashed through a Pine Hills daycare wall on Oct. 15, injuring three 4-year-olds and two adults; the vehicle came to rest inside with 14 people present.

11th Circuit Backs Florida Minors’ Social Media Law

11th Circuit in 3-0 Oct. 14, 2026 ruling reverses injunction, finds Florida HB 3 minors social-media law likely constitutional.

Pedestrian Crashes Block Roads Across Florida, South Carolina

A pedestrian was critically hurt on Conway's Highway 544 near Coastal Carolina University, where a crash was fatal in August, as two Ocala strikes closed a road and rail crossings.

Election Records Analysis Asserts 1,827 Removed Noncitizens Cast 7,035 Ballots in Florida Elections

Five Men Get Life Sentences in Murder Cases

Recent murder cases across Florida, Michigan, Georgia and Texas have resulted in life sentences: Elijah Byrd was sentenced for a 2024 Christmas Day killing, Marcus Hayes for killing and dismembering Zacarri Taylor, and Mayel Porter for a 2022 killing committed when he was 16. In Dallas, Steven Augusta Ridge was sentenced to life for the 1996 capital murder of 15-year-old Tamika Cromer.

Study: 44% Reef-Building Corals Threatened With Extinction

A global reassessment found 44% of reef-building coral species are threatened with extinction, and researchers warn the toll may have worsened after recent mass bleaching and rising ocean temperatures. Restoration efforts, including underwater nurseries that grow coral fragments for transplantation, offer one way to support damaged reefs, though conservationists also stress protecting genetic diversity.

Florida Dengue Outbreak Reaches 296 Locally Acquired Cases

Florida is facing its largest dengue outbreak in decades, with 296 locally acquired cases reported through early October, concentrated in the Tampa Bay area; one death has been confirmed. Local emergencies and expanded mosquito-control operations are continuing, while officials urge residents to eliminate standing water, use repellent and protect themselves from bites.

Florida Targets Medicaid Fraud After Providers Billed for More Than 24 Hours a Day

Florida officials say an aggressive crackdown on Medicaid fraud and improper billing has helped reduce projected annual spending on behavioral therapy services by nearly $1 billion… — by Andrew Powell