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Mysterious Drone Swarms Continue To Spark Alarm

Unveiling the Night Sky Enigma

12/11/24
By AzM News | USA

Since mid-November 2024, residents across New Jersey have reported numerous nighttime sightings of large, unidentified drones hovering over various regions, including sensitive areas such as military installations and residential neighborhoods. These occurrences have prompted investigations by federal and state authorities, including the FBI and the New Jersey State Police.

Details of the Sightings

Witnesses have described the drones as sizable, with some estimating them to be as large as small cars. 

The drones often appear in clusters, sometimes numbering between 30 to 50, and are equipped with lights that enable visibility during night operations. Notably, these drones have been observed near critical sites such as the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility, and President-elect Donald Trump's Bedminster golf course.

People

Government Response

Governor Phil Murphy has acknowledged the sophistication of these drones, noting their ability to "go dark" upon detection, which complicates tracking efforts. Despite the widespread concern, Governor Murphy has stated that there is "no known threat to public safety at this time."

New York Post

The FBI's Newark office is actively investigating the incidents and has appealed to the public for information, urging residents to report sightings and provide any available footage.

Legislative Actions

In response to the persistent drone activity, State Senator Jon Bramnick has called for a "limited state of emergency" to ban all drones until authorities can provide explanations for the sightings. Additionally, U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer plans to introduce legislation aimed at enhancing law enforcement's access to drone-tracking technology and imposing stricter penalties for unauthorized drone operations that interfere with emergency or military activities.

ABC News

Speculations and Theories

Security experts have speculated that the drones might be part of a clandestine U.S. government program testing new military technologies or data collection methods. These drones are believed to be equipped with advanced capabilities, such as high-definition cameras and devices capable of intercepting cellphone data. However, no official confirmation has been provided regarding these theories.

New York Post

International Incidents

Similar unexplained drone activities have been reported internationally. Notably, U.S. military bases in the United Kingdom have experienced unauthorized drone incursions, prompting increased security measures and investigations.

Newsweek

Public Concerns

The ongoing drone sightings have caused unease among New Jersey residents, with reports of drones flying low over homes and lingering for extended periods. Some residents have described the drones as "menacing" and "creepy," expressing frustration over the lack of clear information from authorities. Local officials continue to monitor the situation, emphasizing that while the drones do not currently pose a known threat, the need for transparency and swift action remains paramount.

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Americans Can Claim Up to $5,000 from Hilb Group Data Breach Settlement

11/30/24
By AzM News | USA

In a significant legal resolution, individuals impacted by a data breach involving the Hilb Group can now claim up to $5,000 in compensation from a $1.6 million settlement fund. The breach, which occurred between December 1, 2022, and January 12, 2023, potentially exposed sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, financial data, and other private records.

Details of the Breach

The Hilb Group, a national insurance services company, confirmed the breach after discovering unauthorized access to their systems. 

The breach affected thousands of customers, compromising sensitive data used for insurance purposes. The incident has highlighted the growing risks of cyberattacks and the importance of stringent data security measures in the digital age.

Who Is Eligible?

Customers whose personal information was compromised are eligible to file a claim. The settlement allows for:

How to File a Claim

Eligible individuals must file their claims by December 13, 2024, through the official settlement website. The claims process requires proof of identity and documented evidence of financial losses. Those unsure about their eligibility are encouraged to review notices sent by the Hilb Group or consult the settlement administrator for clarification.

Addressing the Growing Threat of Data Breaches

This settlement serves as a reminder of the escalating risks associated with cybersecurity breaches. Businesses across all sectors face increasing pressure to bolster their defenses against hackers and ensure that customer data is adequately protected. Legal experts anticipate more such settlements as regulators and courts seek to hold companies accountable for lapses in cybersecurity.

Final Words

With the deadline for claims fast approaching, affected individuals are encouraged to act swiftly. This settlement not only compensates victims but also serves as a wake-up call for organizations to prioritize data security and transparency in handling breaches.

Sources:

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Biden Authorizes Ukraine’s Use of Long-Range Missiles Amid Escalating Geopolitical Tensions

11/18/24
By AzM News | USA

President Joe Biden has authorized the Ukrainian military to utilize U.S.-supplied long-range missiles, specifically the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMs), to strike Russian military positions deeper within its territory. This marks a significant shift in U.S. policy and reflects growing complexities in the geopolitical landscape, particularly as tensions with Russia and North Korea intensify.

A Game-Changer for Ukraine

The ATACMs, known for their precision and extended range, provide Ukraine with a strategic advantage in countering Russian aggression. Ukrainian forces have already begun preparations to deploy these missiles, targeting military installations and supply chains far from the frontlines.

The decision to authorize their use signals Washington’s commitment to supporting Kyiv’s resistance against Moscow’s continued aggression. This move is expected to bolster Ukraine’s ability to defend its sovereignty while pressuring Russia to reconsider its military strategies.

Russia’s Collaboration with North Korea

Compounding the situation, reports have confirmed the presence of North Korean troops within Russian borders. President Vladimir Putin’s administration has reportedly deployed these forces along Ukraine’s northern border, intending to bolster efforts to reclaim lost territories. This collaboration underscores an emerging alliance between Russia and North Korea, both increasingly isolated on the global stage.

U.S. officials have expressed concerns that this partnership may signal a broader alignment among authoritarian regimes, raising the stakes for Western democracies. North Korea’s involvement also heightens the urgency for coordinated international efforts to deter further escalation.

Implications for U.S. Policy

President Biden’s decision reflects a calculated response to Russia’s provocative moves. By greenlighting the use of ATACMs, the administration aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position while sending a clear message to Moscow about the consequences of its actions.

The policy shift, however, is not without risks. Critics have cautioned that deeper strikes into Russian territory could provoke retaliatory measures, potentially widening the conflict. The Biden administration has assured that the deployment of these missiles will be tightly coordinated with Ukrainian officials to mitigate unintended consequences.

Global Reactions

The international community remains divided. NATO allies have largely supported the decision, viewing it as a necessary step to curb Russian aggression. Conversely, China and Iran have criticized the U.S. for escalating tensions, urging restraint and dialogue to resolve the crisis.

With the war entering a critical phase, Biden’s authorization underscores the U.S.’s resolve to support Ukraine’s fight for democracy and territorial integrity.

Looking Ahead

As the situation evolves, all eyes are on Ukraine’s next moves and Russia’s potential response. This development could redefine the trajectory of the conflict, influencing not only the immediate region but also broader geopolitical alignments.

Stay tuned to AzM News for updates on this story and other critical developments shaping the global stage.


Sources:

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Southern California's Mountain Fire Destroys 132 Structures Amidst Easing Winds

11/08/24

CAMARILLO, Calif. (AP) — Firefighters in Southern California are making progress in containing the Mountain Fire, which has destroyed 132 structures over the past two days. Officials anticipate that the fierce wind gusts fueling the blaze will subside early Friday, aiding containment efforts.

The Mountain Fire ignited earlier this week, rapidly spreading through dry vegetation and threatening numerous communities. Evacuation orders have been issued for thousands of residents as the fire continues to advance. Fire crews, supported by aerial resources, are working tirelessly to protect homes and critical infrastructure.

The National Weather Service forecasts that the strong winds, which have exacerbated the fire's spread, will diminish by Friday morning. This change in weather conditions is expected to provide a much-needed advantage to firefighting efforts.

Authorities urge residents to stay informed through official channels and adhere to evacuation orders and safety guidelines. The cause of the Mountain Fire remains under investigation.

Sources:
Times Union
NBC Los Angeles
KTLA

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The Role of the Supreme Court and Judiciary in a Second Trump Term

11/06/24

With Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025, significant changes to the U.S. judiciary could be on the horizon. 

Trump's influence on the Supreme Court and federal judiciary, combined with the possibility of further appointments, could shape American law and policy for decades. 

This article examines how judicial appointments made during a second Trump term could impact the direction of the Supreme Court and lower federal courts, affecting issues ranging from individual rights to federal power.


Expanding Conservative Influence on the Supreme Court

During his first term, Trump appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett, cementing a solid 6-3 conservative majority. A second term could give Trump the opportunity to replace additional justices, potentially shifting the court even further to the right. Justice Clarence Thomas, the court’s senior conservative member, and Justice Samuel Alito have signaled a commitment to conservative jurisprudence, yet their eventual retirement would provide Trump with an opportunity to appoint younger, like-minded successors who could serve for decades.

Trump’s new appointments would likely uphold an originalist interpretation of the Constitution, viewing its provisions as fixed rather than flexible. This approach could lead to more rulings in favor of states' rights, potentially rolling back federal regulations on issues like environmental protection, healthcare, and education. Additionally, originalist leanings could influence future court decisions on voting rights, religious freedom, and the balance of powers between federal and state governments.

Key Issues Likely to Be Affected by Judicial Changes

The Broader Impact of Federal Judiciary Appointments

While the Supreme Court garners the most attention, Trump’s influence on lower federal courts—where the majority of U.S. cases are decided—is also significant. Trump appointed over 200 federal judges in his first term, most of whom share his judicial philosophy and will continue to shape rulings in federal appellate and district courts across the country. These courts play a vital role in interpreting constitutional rights, labor laws, immigration policies, and corporate regulations. Their decisions impact everything from local disputes to major national policies, making the selection of judges crucial to the judicial landscape.

In addition to federal courts, Trump could have the opportunity to appoint judges who interpret the Constitution narrowly, adhering to precedent in a way that limits new expansions of rights. These appointees could strengthen conservative interpretations on matters of administrative law, business regulations, and civil liberties.

Long-Term Implications for U.S. Law and Society

If Trump has the opportunity to further influence the Supreme Court, the court’s decisions could have ripple effects for generations, impacting how the Constitution is interpreted across a wide range of legal areas. His selections would likely continue the current trajectory toward an originalist, state-empowered judiciary, potentially limiting federal interventions and promoting conservative views on civil liberties and rights. Future decisions could entrench a judicial philosophy that fundamentally reinterprets established norms, impacting everything from personal freedoms to the limits of governmental authority.

The long-term effects of these appointments will likely outlast Trump’s time in office, marking a shift that could influence American law, policy, and society for decades.

Sources:

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Caribbean Storm Could Become Hurricane Rafael, Threaten New Orleans

11/04/24

New Orleans, LN - A tropical depression churning in the Caribbean is expected to strengthen, potentially becoming Hurricane Rafael with a path that could threaten New Orleans. The storm, currently south of Jamaica with 35 mph winds, is projected to intensify as it heads north, potentially impacting the Cayman Islands and Cuba before turning towards the Gulf of Mexico.

Jamaica has Tropical Storm Warnings, and the Cayman Islands have hurricane warnings. Parts of Cuba are also under Hurricane and Tropical Storm Watches. 

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) advises residents in these areas and those along the Gulf Coast to monitor the storm's progress and prepare for potential hurricane conditions.

SOURCES: National Hurricane Center (NHC), CNN, The Weather Channel

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Early Voting Begins in Florida

10/21/24

Boca Raton, FL - Early Voting allows you to cast your vote when and where it is convenient for you. The Early Voting locations we select in Palm Beach County are chosen with you, the voter, in mind, while remaining in compliance with Florida law. 

As long as you're an eligible registered voter in Palm Beach County, you can vote at any Early Voting sites

The deadline to register to vote or change your party is October 7, 2024

3 EASY WAYS TO VOTE 

Palm Beach County Votes 2024 GENERAL ELECTION Monday, October 21, 2024, through Sunday, November 3, 2024 Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Registered voters in Palm Beach County can vote at any of the 26 Early Voting locations conveniently located countywide. 

Visit VotePalmBeach.gov for Early Voting locations, directions, and wait times, or to make an appointment. You can also check the website to see when pet adoptions will be available at Early Voting locations!

WHAT TO BRING TO THE VOTING SITE

Please bring one or two forms of valid and current identification that include your signature and photo.

Acceptable Photo ID Florida Voters:

Florida Driver License, Florida ID Card (issued by DHSMV), U.S. Passport, Debit or Credit Card, Military ID, Student ID, Retirement Center ID, Neighborhood Association ID, Public Assistance ID, Veteran Health ID (issued by the US Department of Veterans Affairs) and a Concealed Weapon License (issued pursuant to F.S. 790.06)

Employee ID card issued by any branch, department, agency, or entity of the Federal Government, the state, a county, or a municipality. If your photo ID does not include your signature, you will be asked to provide another ID that has your signature. If you do not bring your ID, you may still vote, however, you will be required to vote on a provisional ballot, which will later be evaluated by a canvassing board for eligibility.

Sources:

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Federal Judge Rejects DeSantis' Efforts Against Free Speech

September 18, 2024

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican is employing every possible means to uphold his state's six-week abortion restriction. The legislation, unpopular with the electorate, frequently denies women urgent medical care and compels many to seek treatment beyond state lines. Voters can repeal it in November through Amendment 4, a ballot proposal aimed at reinstating reproductive rights in Florida, which requires a 60% majority to pass. DeSantis is channeling substantial taxpayer funds to combat this measure.

Recently, the governor intensified his push against Amendment 4, insisting on the withdrawal of pro-choice broadcasts and threatening legal action against media outlets airing them. In a Slate Plus bonus episode of Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern examined a significant legal setback to DeSantis' unconstitutional censorship endeavors and 


his contingency plan in case his agenda is democratically rejected. Here’s a glimpse into their discussion.

Dahlia Lithwick: In our last update on Amendment 4, Ron DeSantis’ Department of Health was threatening broadcasters with criminal charges for airing an accurate pro-choice advertisement, labeling it deceitful and hazardous. What updates do we have from the past week?

Mark Joseph Stern: Supporters of Amendment 4 initiated a federal lawsuit, arguing that these threats infringed upon the First Amendment. Some stations had ceased airing the ad, unsurprisingly, since the DeSantis administration warned of up to 60 days in jail for those maintaining it on air. This was an unmistakable violation of free speech.

Fortunately, Judge Mark Walker, an Obama appointee, took charge of the case. Known for his intolerance towards DeSantis’ attempts to curtail free speech and voting rights, Walker swiftly held a session and issued an injunction preventing the government from penalizing stations for showing the ad. His decision heavily relied on the recent Supreme Court ruling in NRA v. Vullo, affirming that the government cannot pressure third parties into restricting disliked speech. This principle aligned precisely with the situation at hand.

Judge Walker’s opinion tackles the heart of political discourse, emphasizing that the government cannot suppress political speech by declaring it false. He cited Justice Robert H. Jackson, emphasizing the First Amendment’s role in preventing government control over public opinion. Walker then succinctly reminded, "It’s the First Amendment, stupid,” underscoring his stance against DeSantis’ attempts to regulate truth.

DeSantis’ persistent efforts to dictate truth are particularly concerning. His actions, whether targeting university discourse, public education, or even private enterprise, have consistently faced legal challenges. Despite multiple defeats in court, including rebukes from the conservative 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, DeSantis continues to strive for control over public expression and thought.

Amidst these battles, DeSantis’ supporters have filed a state lawsuit seeking to invalidate Amendment 4, alleging unfounded claims of signature fraud. Despite the state’s approval of the ballot, they aim to confuse voters and potentially nullify the amendment if passed.

Florida's Constitution starts by affirming that all political power lies with the people, not with governmental bodies. DeSantis’ actions undermine this fundamental tenet, attempting to replace democratic power with authoritarian rule, targeting especially women’s rights. This should provoke national outrage.

In a landscape dominated by authoritarian tactics and misuse of government power to silence democratic processes, the question arises: Is there an entity capable of challenging DeSantis in Florida?

Despite these challenges, there are dissenters. John Wilson, the former general counsel for the Florida Department of Health, resigned after sending intimidating notices to TV stations, stating his conscience prevented him from participating in this direction. This highlights some resistance, though more voices are needed to oppose DeSantis’ path toward permanently weakening democracy in Florida.

News Sources:

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Milton's Fury: Millions in the Dark as Florida Reels from Hurricane 

September 27, 2024

Tampa, FL – Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast Wednesday night as a Category 3 storm, bringing destructive winds, torrential rain, and a deadly storm surge. The storm has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with millions of Floridians currently without power and widespread reports of flooding and structural damage.

As of Thursday morning, over 3 million customers are without power across the state, according to PowerOutage.us. 


The storm surge, which reached up to 10 feet in some areas, has inundated coastal communities, causing significant damage to homes and businesses. Inland areas are grappling with flash flooding and downed trees, causing road closures and hindering access for emergency responders.

Tragically, there have been reports of fatalities associated with the storm. Four deaths have been confirmed in St. Lucie County, attributed to tornadoes spawned by the hurricane. Search and rescue operations are underway in affected areas, and the death toll is feared to rise.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for all of Florida, mobilizing state resources to assist in the response effort. The Florida National Guard has been deployed to assist with search and rescue, debris removal, and the distribution of supplies. Shelters have been opened across the state to provide refuge for those displaced by the storm.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also been working closely with state officials to coordinate the response. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has assured Floridians that federal aid will be available to those affected by the storm.

"We are committed to supporting Florida through this difficult time," Criswell said in a statement. "We have already deployed resources to the state and stand ready to provide additional assistance as needed."

The full extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Milton is still being assessed, but it is clear that the recovery process will be long and challenging. Residents are urged to heed the warnings of local officials and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.

News Sources:

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Florida's Minimum Wage Hits $13: A Milestone in Wage Increase

Tuesday, September  24th, 2024

FLORIDA – As of Monday, September 30, 2024, Florida's minimum wage has officially reached $13 per hour. This significant increase is a step forward in the state's ongoing implementation of a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2020.

Spearheaded by prominent Orlando lawyer John Morgan, the amendment aims to gradually raise Florida's minimum wage to $15 per hour by September 30, 2026. The annual increases, mandated by the amendment, have been steadily progressing since the initial rise to $10 per hour in 2021.

With the latest increase, Florida's minimum wage now stands significantly above the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. 

This development is expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy, particularly for low-income workers and small businesses.

As Florida continues to implement this significant wage increase, it remains to be seen what the long-term economic implications will be. However, the positive impact on the lives of countless workers is undeniable.

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USA NEWS: FLORIDA

April 8, 2024

Today's top news in Florida includes a mix of tragic events, legal issues, and societal concerns:

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UN Investigation Reveals Haitian Gangs Equipped with Guns from Florida

March 11, 2024

Amid Haiti's escalating crisis, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been cautioning refugees against heading to Florida, following a significant incident where the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission intercepted a boat carrying migrants and firearms off Florida's coast. This event underscores the issue of Florida's guns fueling violence in Haiti, with a UN report in 2023 revealing that a majority of violent Haitian gangs possess weapons sourced from the US, particularly Florida.

FBI crackdowns and Department of Justice prosecutions have resulted in federal convictions of Florida residents involved in supplying high-powered firearms to Haitian gangs. "It's kind of a perfect storm," retired FBI agent Jim Derrane told FOX 13, highlighting the sophisticated smuggling networks used by international gangs.

A notable case earlier this year involved the leader of the 400 Mawozo Gang, Joly Germaine, admitting to orchestrating firearm trafficking from Florida to Haiti. The scheme involved buying firearms in Florida to arm the gang, responsible for kidnapping 16 US citizens. Two Florida residents were arrested for their role in this illegal operation, with one, Jocelyn Dor, receiving a five-year prison sentence.

Derrane emphasized the importance of enforcing existing gun laws to curb such smuggling activities. Germaine's sentencing is scheduled for May in federal court.

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Oscars 2024: 'Oppenheimer' Dominates with Seven Wins, Including Best Picture

March 11, 2024

At the 2024 Oscars, "Oppenheimer" emerged as the big winner, clinching Best Picture and six other awards, including Best Director for Christopher Nolan and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy. The film also received accolades for its cinematography, original score, and film editing. Emma Stone was awarded Best Actress for her role in "Poor Things," which also won for Best Costume Design, Production Design, and Makeup and hairstyling, defeating favorite Lily Gladstone. "The Boy and the Heron" won Best Animated Feature, and "The Zone of Interest" took home Best International Feature. "20 Days in Mariupol" was named Best Documentary. 

Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell secured the Best Original Song Oscar for their work in "Barbie." Screenplay awards went to Justine Triet and Arthur Harari for "Anatomy of a Fall" (Original) and Cord Jefferson for "American Fiction" (Adapted). The ceremony, held at the Dolby Theatre and broadcast live on ABC, featured Jimmy Kimmel as host. A protest march in Los Angeles marked a significant event outside the Oscars venue.

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Pentagon Report Debunks UFO Visitation Claims: No Evidence of Extraterrestrial Contact

March 10, 2024

A recent report from the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) challenges decades of speculation regarding UFO sightings in the United States. Released on March 6, 2024, the 63-page review addresses persistent beliefs that the US government has concealed encounters with extraterrestrial beings or reverse-engineered alien technology.

According to the report, spanning investigations from 1945 to the present, over 12,000 UFO sightings were recorded, but none were deemed evidence of alien visitation. Instead, these sightings were attributed to misidentified ordinary objects or military aircraft.

The AARO review, which refers to UFOs as "Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP)," asserts that exhaustive inquiries, both domestically and abroad, have consistently reached similar conclusions. Despite widespread belief fueled by pop culture, including Hollywood's portrayal of aliens, no empirical evidence supports claims of extraterrestrial encounters or government cover-ups.

David Grusch, a former intelligence officer and member of a Pentagon UAP task force, stirred controversy last year by alleging the government's storage of alien bodies and UFOs. However, the AARO report contradicts such assertions, emphasizing the lack of substantiated evidence.

The report suggests that misconceptions about UFOs often arise from misidentifications of advanced military technology, particularly during periods of heightened Cold War tensions. Aircraft such as the U-2 plane and F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter, deployed in the 1950s and 60s, were frequently mistaken for UFOs due to their innovative designs and secretive nature.

While acknowledging public fascination with UFOs, the Pentagon emphasizes transparency and accountability, assuring that congressional oversight ensures thorough reporting on UAP investigations. The report aims to dispel myths surrounding government involvement in extraterrestrial matters, instead advocating for a scientific approach to understanding past UFO phenomena.

In summary, the AARO report refutes claims of alien visitation and government secrecy, attributing UFO sightings to terrestrial origins and emphasizing the importance of evidence-based inquiry.

Source: AARO

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Florida Measles Outbreak Grows, Drawing Concerns from Experts

February 25, 2024

Broward County health officials confirm the seventh case of measles, a child under 5, marking the youngest infected in the outbreak and the first case outside of Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston.

Experts anticipate the virus's spread beyond school-age children, criticizing the decision to let parents choose whether to quarantine unvaccinated children as potentially facilitating further spread.

Florida's outbreak, the largest in the U.S., highlights rising vaccine exemptions, with 33 unvaccinated students among 1,067 at Manatee Bay Elementary, sparking concerns among parents about the virus's impact on vulnerable populations.

Source: NBC NEWS

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Florida Lawmakers Pass Restrictive Social Media Ban for Minors

February 23, 2024

In Tallahassee, Florida, a bill to impose one of the nation's strictest bans on minors' social media use is advancing to Governor Ron DeSantis, who has expressed reservations about its implications on parental rights. The legislation, passed by the House with a vote of 108-7 and the Senate with 23-14, targets social media platforms that track user activity, permit content uploads, and employ addictive features deemed harmful to minors.

Supporters argue the ban is crucial amid rising concerns about cyberbullying, online predators, and negative mental health impacts on children. 

However, opponents, including Democratic state Senator Jason Pizzo, criticize it as a violation of the First Amendment and an overreach of government authority into parental responsibilities. Despite mixed opinions among lawmakers and parents like Angela Perry, who value parental rights, the bill awaits final approval from Governor DeSantis, who stresses the need for parental involvement in monitoring social media use.

Source - apnews.com

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