Community News
Friday, May 1, 2026 · Okeechobee County
DeSantis Signs 6 Florida Bills, Some Effective Immediately
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed six new laws Tuesday, capping off a flurry of legislation with immediate impacts in Polk, Lake and Indian River counties. Provisions curbing inmate medical costs take effect now, while roadway honors for Trump and terror victims reshape local landmarks. The package underscores DeSantis' push on public safety, education and military support amid a record signing spree.
DeSantis Signs Florida Law to Designate Domestic Terror Groups
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 1471 into law Monday, empowering Florida to label domestic terrorist organizations after a blocked executive order targeting CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood. The measure, celebrated at USF in Tampa, imposes felony penalties for material support and bars taxpayer funds to linked schools. Lt. Gov. Jay Collins vowed to 'designate, defund and dissolve' threats to Florida values.
Friday, May 1, 2026
South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Approves Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
The South Florida Water Management District Governing Board has given initial approval to its Fiscal Year 2025 budget, impacting water management across Okeechobee County.
Friday, May 1, 2026
SFWMD Governing Board Approves Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
The South Florida Water Management District Governing Board has approved its Fiscal Year 2025 budget, impacting water management and flood control efforts in Okeechobee County.
Friday, May 1, 2026