Tensions Escalate as State Budget Standoff Deepens & Florida Sees Dip in Canadian Tourism
May 15, 2025 - This Week's News from Central Florida
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Tensions Escalate as State Budget Standoff Deepens
Florida’s legislative budget impasse has devolved into a war of words, with House Speaker Daniel Perez (R-Miami) publicly comparing Governor Ron DeSantis to a “seventh grader” as negotiations stall. The rift follows the collapse of a tentative budget deal between the House and Senate, largely over Perez’s push for a sweeping sales tax cut and DeSantis’ preference for property tax relief, including a possible $1,000 property tax rebate to homeowners—which the House has rejected. Just two days into an extended legislative session to pass a state budget, Perez ramped up his rhetoric, slamming Senate President Ben Albritton (R-Wauchula) for “breaking our word” on the earlier spending agreement. While he signaled openness to proposals beyond a sales tax cut to decrease state spending, Perez accused DeSantis of being “scared” and avoiding direct talks. “The governor isn’t willing to have a conversation, period,” he said. “There’s no difference between him and any seventh grader in Miami-Dade County right now who tweets.” The House remains firm on cutting spending, and DeSantis and Senate leaders are united in passing more targeted tax relief, arguing the lower chamber’s plan is unsustainable. With the session extended until the end of June, Perez vowed the House would not be intimidated or bullied into a deal. The governor has continued to criticize Republican leadership in the House for what he calls “petty” politics.
Florida Sees Dip in Canadian Tourism Amid Political Tensions
Canadian tourism to Florida appears to be on the decline, and political friction may be a contributing factor. Longtime visitors from Canada are reportedly reconsidering trips south amid political tensions fueled by President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and trade policies targeting Canada. Trump’s repeated calls for Canada to become the “51st state” and his public criticism of Canadian leaders have led some Canadians to rethink their travel plans, with many citing discomfort over the political climate as a reason for canceling trips. Recent data shows a downturn in Canadian visitors, who contribute significantly to the state’s winter economy, but not to the dramatic extent some politicians have claimed. U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) cited an 80% drop in a recent television appearance, but aviation and tourism statistics suggest a decrease in Canadian airline seats to Florida of about 10-13% for the upcoming months. According to statistics from Visual Approach Analytics, specific airports like Fort Lauderdale and Orlando are seeing monthly Canadian airline passenger declines of up to 20% and 12%, respectively. The analysis shows greater declines at Fort Myers Airport, which is down 30%, and Palm Beach International Airport, experiencing a 43% drop. Miami International has seen a modest 5.9% decline from January 1 to late April. Road travel from Canada to the U.S. is also down about 17% year-over-year. Hotel operators in Florida, particularly in areas popular with Canadians, report fewer bookings and attribute the trend to both the political atmosphere and ongoing trade disputes. The full impact on Florida’s tourism industry will become clearer as more data for 2025 becomes available.
Federal Court Blocks Florida Law Targeting Drag Shows, Citing Free Speech Concerns
A federal appeals court has upheld a ruling that blocks a 2023 Florida law aimed at limiting children's access to certain live performances, including drag shows. In a 2-1 decision, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with Hamburger Mary’s, an Orlando venue known for hosting drag performances, that challenged the law on First Amendment grounds. Two of the three judges on the panel called the legislation “substantially overbroad,” criticizing its vague language and emphasis on “lewd conduct,” which they said could be used to suppress constitutionally protected expression. “The Constitution demands specificity when the state restricts speech,” the opinion stated. “Requiring clarity in speech regulations shields us from the whims of government censors.” The court warned that such ambiguity could allow arbitrary enforcement. The law, known as the “Protection of Children” bill, was backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and intended to bar children from “adult live performances,” but did not explicitly mention drag shows. It allowed for the suspension or revocation of business licenses and restricted permitting of public events that might expose minors to content officials deem inappropriate. One judge dissented, arguing the court overstepped and should have deferred to Florida’s Supreme Court to interpret the statute’s scope.
DeSantis Holds Off on Key Appointments Amid Budget Uncertainty
Governor Ron DeSantis is taking his time to appoint replacements filling two top state positions, citing ongoing legislative budget negotiations. DeSantis announced he wants to wait until the dust settles on the 2025-2026 state budget before naming permanent replacements for former Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez and former Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. While he hinted the appointments will come “relatively soon,” he emphasized the importance of seeing the legislative process through first. Patronis stepped down to run for Congress and won his race in April. Nuñez left her post in February to become interim president of Florida International University, later securing the role permanently. DeSantis previously indicated a new CFO would be named in May, though no acting official has been announced. Speculation surrounds Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill), a close ally of the governor, as a likely candidate. The lieutenant governor vacancy appears less urgent to fill.
Tort Reform Group Warns DeSantis Over Repealing ‘Free Kill’ Law
Florida's so-called ‘free kill’ law provides legal protections that limit liability for medical professionals accused of negligence or malpractice, potentially shielding them from lawsuits if they believe their actions were justifiable. Under the 35-year-old law, only spouses and children under 25 could file lawsuits for pain and suffering damages, meaning parents of adult children and adult children over 25 are barred from seeking compensation. Lawmakers overwhelmingly passed HB 6017 this session, which would eliminate these restrictions and allow broader wrongful death lawsuits against hospitals and healthcare providers. The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) is urging Governor Ron DeSantis to veto the bill, warning it could harm the state’s medical and legal landscape. They say it could worsen Florida’s physician shortages and raise malpractice insurance costs. “We expect legislation like this in New York, not in Florida,” ATRA’s president wrote in a letter to DeSantis, adding that the state could return to its “Judicial Hellholes” list if the measure becomes law. The governor has not indicated whether he will sign or veto the bill, which would take effect July 1 if approved
Beaches Brace for Record Seaweed Season
Florida’s beaches are bracing for an unprecedented sargassum seaweed invasion this summer, with scientists at the University of South Florida (USF) projecting a 40% increase over the previous record set in 2022. The massive brown algae bloom, which began forming earlier than usual in March, reached historic highs by the end of April and is expected to continue growing through the summer. Sargassum, while providing habitat for marine life offshore, becomes a nuisance when it clogs marinas or washes ashore, emitting a strong odor as it decomposes, posing health concerns, and deterring tourists. The surge is blamed on a combination of warmer ocean temperatures, nutrient-rich waters, and shifting wind patterns, all of which may be linked to climate change, according to USF researchers. Cities are preparing for costly cleanup operations, with previous years’ efforts running into millions of dollars. Meanwhile, some local governments in Miami-Dade are backing startup innovations to turn the nuisance into useful products like fertilizer or biofuels. Researchers at the University of Miami are also testing models to better track and forecast the seaweed’s movement. Although satellite data shows about 30 million metric tons floating in the Atlantic, scientists can’t yet pinpoint where it will land.
Florida Citrus Growers See Progress as Forecasts, Support Improve
Florida’s citrus industry is gaining momentum following a tough start to the year, with improving harvest forecasts and legislative support renewing optimism among growers. The latest USDA projections estimate 11.63 million boxes of oranges, 1.3 million boxes of grapefruit, and 400,000 boxes of tangerines and tangelos will be harvested this season. That’s an increase from earlier, more modest expectations following hurricanes Helene and Milton. “Every day, I hear from Florida citrus growers who are seeing healthier trees...This month’s upward momentum reflects growers’ relentless efforts,” said Matt Joyner, CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual (FCM). Lawmakers in Tallahassee are also prioritizing citrus, with budget discussions underway on a $200 million funding package, which would support grove rehabilitation, research, and replanting efforts. The Senate’s proposal includes $125 million for new tree plantings and significant investment in disease-resistant varieties. On the federal level, U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody’s (R-FL) proposed Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act would revise juice standards to benefit local growers and strengthen domestic production, a move FCM strongly supports. Industry leaders say these steps could help revitalize Florida’s signature crop.
Officials Seek to Revive Tampa Bay Ferry Service
Transportation officials in Tampa Bay are reviving plans for an upgraded, year-round ferry service between St. Petersburg and Tampa, with hopes to launch with two high-speed vessels. The plan is to utilize a $4.86 million federal grant awarded to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) in 2021 that is approaching its expiration date. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), which has voted to accept the grant, plans to own the boats and lease them to a private operator, aiming to improve service frequency and lower operating costs. The move comes after the seasonal Cross Bay Ferry, which had connected the two cities since 2016, ended operations in early May following Hillsborough County’s decision to terminate its contract with the operator. PSTA CEO Brad Miller said that owning the vessels could save local governments hundreds of dollars per hour in operating expenses, potentially reducing ticket prices or municipal subsidies. Two boats would also establish more flexibility and frequency in service. The grant transfer still requires final approval from the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART). Local leaders and stakeholders have expressed strong support, emphasizing the ferry’s popularity and its potential to enhance regional transportation.
Orlando Dreamers Target County Land for Potential MLB Stadium Amid Questions, Concerns
The Orlando Dreamers have set their sights on 35.5 acres of county-owned land near SeaWorld’s Aquatica for a proposed Major League Baseball stadium, a location that sits in the heart of Orlando’s bustling tourist corridor, close to International Drive and the Orange County Convention Center. The group believes the site—currently used for overflow parking and utility infrastructure—offers a prime opportunity to attract an MLB franchise, possibly even the Tampa Bay Rays. Plans presented to Orange County in 2023 outlined a $2.5 billion vision, including a 45,000-seat domed stadium, hotel towers, event space, and expansive parking. But challenges loom, including unclear county intentions for the land, which was purchased with tourist tax dollars, and concerns from nearby Williamsburg residents. Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson, whose district includes the area, expressed opposition, citing inadequate infrastructure and potential environmental impacts. She added that impervious surfaces for infrastructure such as walkways, parking areas, or a domed stadium would direct rainwater into the adjacent Shingle Creek, a flood-sensitive watershed. Meanwhile, residents of the Williamsburg neighborhood have concerns about added noise and traffic, especially following the recent addition of Universal’s Epic Universe theme park. Regular conversations between county officials and Dreamers’ leadership have been held throughout the process, but no public commitment of land or funding has been made. Additionally, with similar stadium projects, MLB typically looks for political support and public investment to fund developments, whether through tax incentives, infrastructure improvements, land grants, or tourist development taxes. Despite significant hurdles, the Dreamers have assembled impressive financial backing, led by prominent local businessmen John Morgan and Rick Workman. The total financial package is reportedly exceeding $2.5 billion, with $1.5 billion for team acquisition and $1 billion for stadium construction. The group remains optimistic, believing the site’s location and Orlando’s status as a top tourist destination make it an ideal candidate for MLB expansion or relocation. The potential project has the potential to generate 25,000 permanent jobs and $40 billion in economic impact over 30 years
Kissimmee Approves $16M Downtown Revamp
Kissimmee city commissioners have approved a major infrastructure project aimed at transforming the downtown area from a busy thoroughfare into a vibrant destination. The $16.3 million "Connect Kissimmee" plan, approved April 6, will reduce the main corridor between John Young Parkway and Vine Street from four lanes to two. The redesign includes wider sidewalks, bike lanes, added street parking, and a new roundabout at Ruby Avenue and Emmett Street. The overhaul is designed to boost pedestrian safety and comfort by widening sidewalks, adding bike lanes, and slowing vehicle speeds. Phase one of the project is set to begin in August 2026, with construction expected to finish by 2029. Initially met with hesitation, the proposed improvements won support from local business owners who believe a more walkable downtown will revitalize shops and nightlife. Funding will come from the city and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grants.
Florida Chamber Pushes for Stronger Math Education to Meet Workforce Demands
The Florida Chamber Foundation is urging immediate action to improve math education across the state, highlighting its importance to Florida’s future economy. In a new report, Aligning Math Education to Workforce Needs, the Foundation identifies a disconnect between classroom instruction and the skills employers need. Part of the Florida 2030 Blueprint, the report recommends bringing real-world math into classrooms, promoting math-related careers early, and deepening collaboration between schools and businesses. While 65% of Florida’s eighth graders are proficient in math, leaders say more progress is critical to support the state’s economic ambitions. “Every percentage point gained represents a stronger economy,” said Bemetra Simmons, President & CEO of the Tampa Bay Partnership.
NFL Delays Decision on Jaguars’ Temporary Home
NFL owners will meet next week for their annual spring gathering, but a key decision on where the Jacksonville Jaguars will play in 2027 has been postponed until October. We first brought this story to readers in the May 1st edition of the newsletter. Orange County had hoped for clarity this month as it pushes to bring the team’s home games to Orlando’s Camping World Stadium while Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium undergoes major renovations. County leaders approved up to $11 million in incentives to support the bid. However, Gainesville remains a contender, offering Ben Hill Griffin Stadium as an alternative. While no formal financial package has been proposed by Alachua County, officials there remain open to discussions. A Jaguars spokesperson confirmed both options are still under review by the team and league staff. The financial support from Orlando is drawn from the Tourist Development Tax, aimed at boosting major tourism and sporting events in the region.
Disney Sets Dates for 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Walt Disney World has announced the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for 2025, with 38 nights scheduled from August 15 through October 31 at Magic Kingdom. Public ticket sales begin May 22, while early access opens May 15 for guests at select Disney resorts. Prices will range from $119 to $229 per ticket, depending on the date. New for 2025: Storybook Circus will offer a kid-friendly area, and a “Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires” dance party will debut. Guests can also meet Mickey and Minnie in costume at Town Square Theater. Returning favorites include “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” “Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular,” fireworks, trick-or-treating, and themed treats. Competing theme park Halloween events begin later in August and September.
SeaWorld, Busch Gardens Sees Dip in Q1 Attendance but Eyes Strong 2025
United Parks & Resorts, the parent company of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, reported a slight decline in attendance and revenue for the first quarter of 2025, but executives remain optimistic about the year ahead and beyond. The company welcomed 3.4 million visitors during the quarter, a 1.7% drop from last year, while revenue fell 3.5% to $286.9 million. The shift was partly due to the timing of Easter, which fell in Q1 last year but moves to Q2 in 2025. Despite the dip, CEO Marc Swanson noted an 8.1% boost in April attendance and strong early indicators for next year, including Discovery Cove reservations, group events, and international ticket sales. New attractions such as SeaWorld Orlando’s Expedition Odyssey and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Wild Oasis are part of the company's strategy to drive future growth. Swanson also highlighted development opportunities on over 400 acres of unused land, especially near Orlando.
Florida Democrats Tap Beshear, Booker for Leadership Blue Gala Amid Party Rebuilding Effort
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker will headline the Florida Democratic Party’s Leadership Blue Gala on June 21, signaling a renewed push to energize the party’s base in a state that has trended increasingly Republican. The event, part of the party’s three-day Leadership Blue Weekend at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, comes as Democrats seek to reverse recent political losses and shrink a growing voter registration gap with Republicans. FDP Chair Nikki Fried praised the high-profile speakers, calling them “two of the brightest stars of today’s Democratic Party” and saying their presence reflects “the party’s commitment to the future of our state and the importance of the South.” Beshear’s bipartisan success in GOP-dominated Kentucky and Booker’s outspoken advocacy on progressive issues will anchor a weekend aimed at rebuilding enthusiasm among Florida Democrats ahead of the 2026 elections.
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