Epic Universe Opens Amid Record State Visitation Numbers
NewsNight
As Epic Universe officially opens its doors, tourism industry leaders expect a boost to already record visitor numbers to the state. NewsNight looks at the likely impact of Central Florida’s newest theme park on the economy and infrastructure. Plus, Sunshine Corridor plans progress as a study is approved into a Sunrail extension to the airport and the attractions area.
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Arts Groups Wary Over Budget Talks and TDT Uncertainty
NewsNight
Central Florida arts organizations watch the budget fight in Tallahassee as lawmakers debate spending levels, tax relief, and potential future changes to how Tourist Development Tax revenues can be used. Plus, a look at the growing calls for independent candidates to run in Florida’s next gubernatorial election.
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NASA Faces Sizable Budget Cut Under Trump Proposals
NewsNight
This week of NewsNight, President Trump proposes a 24% cut to NASA’s budget, putting science programs and the future of the Space Launch System and Orion in doubt. And new polling shows a large majority of Floridians oppose repealing post-Parkland gun laws. Plus, a look at student homelessness in Central Florida.
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Changes to Florida’s Constitutional Amendment Process
NewsNight
This week of NewsNight, Governor DeSantis signs a bill supporters say will crackdown on fraud in the citizen-led constitutional amendment process, but that critics claim will make it too hard to get initiatives on the ballot. Plus, lawmakers pass new measures to try to ease cost burdens for condominium owners.
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Local Leaders Grapple with Immigration Enforcement Laws
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight, local leaders face pressure from immigration advocates over state requirements to comply with federal enforcement agents. Plus, communities across Central Florida struggle with solutions to the region’s homeless population, as data show the number of unhoused people remains stubbornly high.
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Arts Organizations Keep a Watchful Eye on Tallahassee
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight Conversations, leaders from Central Florida’s arts and cultural organizations discuss the state budget which is set to funding for arts groups. It follows Governor DeSantis’ veto of grants last year. The panel looks at concerns over the criteria for successful funding applications going forward, and ways the arts community is seeking to diversity its outreach efforts.
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More Funds Awarded for Florida Water Quality Projects
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight, Florida adds hundreds of millions of dollars for water quality projects around the state, including for the Indian River Lagoon. But federal DOGE efforts spark concerns over potential impacts on restoration work in the Everglades. Plus, a look at projections for the 2025 hurricane season.
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Federal Cuts Hit Central Florida Food Banks
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight, Central Florida food banks grapple with supply shortages triggered by federal funding cuts amid reports of unprecedented demand. Plus, Florida lawmakers discuss a potential sales tax cut as the state’s finances come into focus.
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Sunshine Corridor Study Plans Gain Momentum
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight, local governments and agencies are pledging funds to pay for a study into the potential Sunshine Corridor between Orlando International Airport to the attractions area. Plus, a look at the potential economic impact on Central Florida of a drop in cross border travel from Canada.
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Florida Implements its New Immigration Legislation
NewsNight
This week on NewsNight, Florida begins implementing its new legislation aimed at cracking down on undocumented immigration, while state officials launch an effort to ensure local law enforcement compliance. And Florida politicians walk a tightrope on the ending of temporary protected status for Venezuelans and Haitians.
info_outlineThis week on NewsNight, Florida adds hundreds of millions of dollars for water quality projects around the state, including for the Indian River Lagoon. But federal DOGE efforts spark concerns over potential impacts on restoration work in the Everglades. Plus, a look at projections for the 2025 hurricane season.