Governor Ron DeSantis, First Lady Casey DeSantis, and Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo said the testing was conducted by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to provide parents with clearer, accessible information about foods commonly consumed by children.

“Transparency is vital to our mission,” Governor DeSantis said in a statement, noting that the initiative is designed to promote innovation, ensure accountability, and empower Floridians to make healthier choices for their families.

Candy Testing Findings

Building on earlier testing of infant formula products, DOH analyzed 46 candy products from 10 companies for heavy metals. According to the state, arsenic was detected in 28 of the products tested, prompting further evaluation of potential exposure risks—particularly for children.

State officials emphasized that the results are intended to inform families and encourage accountability across the food industry, especially for products heavily marketed to young consumers.

Following Infant Formula Review

Earlier this month, Florida released results from testing 24 infant formula products sold both online and in stores statewide. Samples from seven major brands were reviewed for heavy metals and pesticides. That testing identified elevated levels of certain heavy metals—mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead—when compared to health-based screening benchmarks.

“As parents and consumers, we should have confidence that the products sold in grocery stores are safe,” First Lady Casey DeSantis said. “No one should have to wonder whether the food they are feeding their children is quietly impacting their health over time.”

State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said evaluating risks and clearly communicating findings to the public are essential steps toward improving food safety and public health outcomes in Florida.

“Food is an essential part of life, and we need it to be as safe and nutritious as possible,” Ladapo said. “Communicating these findings helps drive the change we seek in the food industry.”

Where to Find the Results

Both the infant formula testing results and the newly released candy testing data are available to the public at ExposingFoodToxins.com, according to the state.

Florida officials say the candy testing initiative is part of a broader effort under Healthy Florida First to promote clean and transparent food systems, rebuild trust in public health, and support evidence-based decision-making for families across the state.

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The Florida Department of Commerce announced that the Orlando metro area—which includes Osceola County along with Orange, Seminole, and Lake counties—led the state in private sector job growth in May 2025, adding 29,000 jobs over the year, a 2.1% increase, while also growing its labor force by more than 17,700 people, signaling continued economic momentum across Central Florida.

Statewide, Florida’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained steady at 3.7% in May, unchanged from April but up slightly from 3.3% one year ago. The national unemployment rate stood at 4.2%, marking the 55th consecutive month that Florida’s rate has been lower than the U.S. average.

“Florida continues to drive strategic economic expansion and job creation across key sectors,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Florida is not resting on our laurels—just this week, wins were announced at the Paris Air Show that reflect our growing influence in aviation and workforce development.”

Local Job Growth by Sector

In May 2025, the Orlando metro area led all Florida metro areas in over-the-year job gains across several key industries:

• Leisure and hospitality: +10,900 jobs

• Professional and business services: +3,000 jobs

• Government: +2,900 jobs

• Financial activities: +1,800 jobs

• Other services: +1,600 jobs

• Information: +900 jobs

The metro area’s unemployment rate was 3.4%, up from 3.0% in May 2024 but still below the state and national averages.

Statewide Employment Growth

Florida gained 22,900 private sector jobs in May, contributing to a total of 134,500 new private sector jobs (+1.5%) over the past year—outpacing the national growth rate of 1.1%.

All ten of the state’s major industry sectors experienced positive year-over-year job growth in May:

• Education and health services: +49,500 jobs (+3.2%)

• Trade, transportation, and utilities: +32,100 jobs (+1.6%)

• Professional and business services: +16,300 jobs (+1.0%)

• Construction: +9,900 jobs (+1.5%)

• Financial activities: +5,600 jobs (+0.8%)

• Manufacturing: +4,200 jobs (+1.0%)

• Leisure and hospitality: +4,100 jobs (+0.3%)

• Information: +2,600 jobs (+1.7%)

• Other services: +10,200 jobs (+2.7%)

• Government: +14,200 jobs (+1.2%)

Florida’s manufacturing sector gained 1,100 jobs in May, continuing to reinforce the state’s growing position as a national leader in the industry.

Resources Available to Job Seekers

FloridaCommerce continues to provide Floridians with tools and support to connect with employers and training opportunities. Over 408,000 job postings were listed online as of May. Free support services include:

• Employ Florida – a comprehensive platform connecting job seekers and employers 
• CareerSource Florida – offering resume help, skills assessments, and job placement through a statewide network
• Apprentice Florida – expanding access to registered apprenticeship programs across industries
• Veterans Florida – helping military veterans transition to civilian careers through targeted services 
• Military Family Employment Advocacy Program – dedicated workforce support for active-duty military spouses and family members
• Talent Pipeline Portal for Aerospace and Defense – connecting job seekers with aerospace and defense industry employers via a specialized portal

Florida’s Economic Outlook Remains Strong

Florida continues to earn top marks for economic strength. U.S. News & World Report ranked Florida the #1 economy in the nation for the second year in a row and #1 in economic growth. The state also ranks #1 in postsecondary education and #2 in overall education, thanks in part to its network of 28 state colleges and 12 state universities.

For full labor market information or to explore job-seeking resources, visit www.floridajobs.org.

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The ‘Move Over’ law, first introduced in Florida in 1971, initially required motorists to yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles. Over the years, it has been revised to enhance road safety. In 2014, the law was expanded to include utility and sanitation vehicles, and in 2021, it was updated to cover road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights.

A significant change in 2024 now requires drivers to move over for any disabled vehicle stopped on the roadside with hazard or warning lights activated. If moving over is not possible — such as on a two-lane highway — drivers must reduce their speed. Specifically, motorists are instructed to slow down by at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit. If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, they should reduce their speed to 5 mph.

Failure to comply with the ‘Move Over’ law can result in fines, fees, and points on a driver’s record. The expanded legislation is part of Florida’s ongoing commitment to roadway safety, aiming to protect not only emergency responders but also utility workers, construction crews, and stranded motorists.

The statewide campaign serves as a reminder for drivers to stay vigilant and prioritize the safety of all road users. By adhering to the ‘Move Over’ law, Floridians can contribute to a safer and more mindful driving environment.

For more information, see section 316.126, Florida Statutes.

“By understanding and respecting the move-over law, every driver can contribute to a safer environment,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Safely changing lanes or slowing down when passing stopped vehicles not only protects lives but also reinforces our collective commitment to road safety. State Troopers have zero tolerance for these dangerous violations and will take enforcement action when a violation is observed.”

Moving over for ANY disabled vehicle on the side of the road, including law enforcement, emergency responders, and other service vehicles, is crucial for maintaining safety on Florida’s roadways. By moving over, those on the side of the road have the space needed to perform emergency vehicle maintenance, respond to crashes, assist those in distress, or conduct traffic management. This simple yet vital action not only helps prevent further incidents but also ensures that help can arrive quickly, potentially saving lives and reducing the overall impact of emergencies. Making room for these vehicles is not just a courtesy; it is a responsibility that every driver should uphold to protect responders and the community.

“Safety is a shared responsibility. The Move Over Law emphasizes the important role each of us plays when we are behind the wheel,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “By doing our part—moving over or reducing our speed when passing a vehicle that is stopped on the side of the road—we not only protect those responding to incidents but also ensure the safety of all road users. This helps create a safe and secure environment for everyone throughout the Free State of Florida.”

Move Over Safety Tips

Disabled Motorists:

• Be safe, be seen. If you are in a disabled vehicle, make sure that you not only pull over to the side of the road but also ensure that you can be seen by using your hazard lights, wearing a reflective vest, or, if you have them, placing reflective triangles (the reflective side facing oncoming traffic) or traffic cones behind your vehicle to make sure that oncoming drivers see you on the side of the road.
• Always use caution. Always use caution when exiting or working on your vehicle. Do not step into the road or oncoming traffic, and never enter the roadway to flag down vehicles for assistance.
• Never stop in the travel lanes. When possible, you should always exit the highway and park at a location where other drivers expect vehicles to be parked. If you are unable to stop in an optimal location, prioritize stopping on the right-hand shoulder as opposed to the left-hand shoulder. Avoid stopping at unsafe locations such as on a bridge.
• Call your roadside assistance provider or a tow truck if necessary. Keep your seatbelt on! If you are involved in a crash, you can call *FHP (*347) on Florida’s highways for additional assistance. You can also call 911 if it is an emergency. Never exit your to flag down other motorists for assistance. DO NOT WALK INTO THE ROADWAY!
• If it is unsafe to exit your vehicle, remain seated with your seatbelt on. If it is safe, make sure you exit your vehicle from the side facing opposite the roadway. Pay attention to vehicle traffic while making the necessary repairs and ensure you never enter the roadway while working on your vehicle.

Drivers:

• Move over; it’s the law. If you cannot change lanes, you must slow down. The law specifies that if a driver can’t move over — or when on a two-lane highway — slow to a speed that is 20 mph or less than the posted speed limit. Slow down to 5 mph when the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less.
• When you see an emergency or service vehicle with flashing lights, your immediate response should be safely moving over one lane. This creates a protective buffer for roadside workers.
• Before changing lanes, assess the traffic around you. Ensure that the lane change can be made safely without putting yourself or other drivers at risk.
• Look ahead for disabled vehicles or roadside personnel so you can slow down and approach cautiously.
• Reduced visibility at night makes it more difficult to see vehicles stop in time, especially during inclement weather. Extra caution and heightened awareness are essential.
• Stay focused on driving and remain alert. This is particularly important on highways, where vehicles are travel at higher speeds, and quick reactions are necessary.
• Avoid multitasking while driving. Refrain from texting and other phone-related distractions. Be prepared for sudden stops or slow traffic, especially near accident scenes or where vehicles are pulled over.

• Regularly check and maintain your vehicle’s headlights and windshield to ensure maximum visibility during nighttime driving.

Throughout January, FHP Troopers will focus on educating the public about the Move Over Law and addressing non-compliance. They will engage with individuals and other motorists during their patrols. The public is encouraged to report aggressive or dangerous drivers by calling *FHP (*347).

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Don’t miss your chance to enter the Florida Future Chef Competition before the July 12 deadline! Submit your entry video through the provided link and get ready to impress the judges. The top three finalists selected from the submissions will compete in the exciting in-person Florida Future Chef Finale in Tampa September 9-11. This event will be a grand showcase of young culinary talent, with participants presenting their best dishes and vying for the title of Florida Future Chef.

Winners of the Florida Future Chef 2024 competition will be awarded generous prizes sponsored by Sprouts. The first-place winner will receive a $5,000 Florida 529 Savings Plan, providing a significant boost to their educational savings. The second-place winner will be awarded a $3,000 Florida 529 Savings Plan, while the third-place winner will take home a $2,000 Florida 529 Savings Plan. These prizes not only recognize culinary excellence but also support the educational aspirations of these talented young chefs. Don’t miss this chance to compete, cook, and win big!

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Among the recommendations are clearing the beach of gear at day’s end, disposing of trash properly to deter predators, filling in any holes dug in the sand to prevent trapping turtles and humans alike, maintaining a respectful distance from nesting turtles, and minimizing artificial light exposure at night to avoid disorienting the turtles and their hatchlings.

As the sea turtle nesting season commences, the FWC reminds residents and visitors alike of the importance of our shores to these vulnerable creatures. By ensuring beaches remain clean, dark, and undisturbed, everyone can contribute to the protection of nesting sea turtles. Simple actions like removing beach toys and furniture before sunset, stashing trash and recyclables properly, and managing fishing line waste can make a substantial difference. Additionally, minimizing beachfront lighting by using natural starlight for navigation, turning off porch and parking lights, and drawing curtains can help guide hatchlings safely to the sea instead of towards danger.

Given Florida’s crucial role as a nesting habitat for several species of sea turtles, public cooperation is paramount. Witnessing these majestic creatures as they embark on their nesting journey is indeed thrilling, but it’s vital to admire from a distance, refraining from any actions that could disrupt their natural behaviors.

For more information about nesting sea turtles and how you can help, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle or see the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure. Other ways to help sea turtles include reporting those that are sick, injured, entangled or dead to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

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Before the Hurricane

KUA recommends having most of your family’s emergency preparations completed in advance. By the time a storm watch or warning is issued for your area, there shouldn’t be much left to prepare.

Always check food, water, first aid, batteries, pet and other stored supplies to ensure they’re fresh and ready to use. Fill your car with gas and check the oil and tires. If there’s a chance you’ll have to evacuate, put anything you may need in your car. Try to complete household chores before the storm hits, so you and your family will be comfortable if you must spend time at home without power. It’s important to pick up any loose items outside and store them in a safe and secure place until after the storm passes. If you have a generator, make sure it is ready and is in a safe location for operation. When a hurricane “Warning” has been issued for Osceola County, check with your local government on their sandbag distribution policy and locations.

We’re fortunate enough to have notice of hurricanes several days in advance. Keep in mind the hurricanes track is constantly changing, so it’s best to always be prepared. If you’re in the storm’s path, you may need to evacuate the area early. Knowing your evacuation routes should be part of your family’s evacuation plan. You can find the evacuation orders of Florida counties here.

During the Hurricane

KUA recommends making every possible effort to prevent being trapped at home during a hurricane. It’s a good idea to keep your family informed on what to do during the storm in case someone becomes stranded and must weather the storm at home.

NEVER go outside during a hurricane. Even when the storm’s eye is moving through the area, it’s not safe to be outside. Stay away from any windows or glass-paned doors that haven’t been boarded up from the outside. Cover them with blankets from the inside to prevent injury or damage from water, flying debris or broken glass. Stay in an interior room of your home for extra safety and keep up with the local news and weather broadcasts as well as other emergency bulletins. DO NOT rely on candles or flammable lighting materials, instead use glow sticks, flashlights, or battery-powered lamps. NEVER travel on the roads until after the storm has passed and local authorities have declared the area safe for traveling.

After the Hurricane

It’s natural to feel a sense of relief when the storm moves away from your area but it’s extremely important to proceed with caution as many dangers remain after a hurricane’s passed. According to KUA, most hurricane-deaths occur after a hurricane, usually when people are removing debris. Downed power lines, broken water, sewer or gas lines, clogged roadways and dangling tree limbs are just a few of the many post-hurricane hazards that must be delt with.

To stay safe during the cleanup, DO NOT drive through standing water. You could become stranded, injured, or swept away by flash-flood waters. Be aware of any broken utility lines and report these problems to the authorities. NEVER touch or move downed lines or repair broken electric or gas connections. Remember that storm debris can camouflage downed power lines or create hiding places for wild animals.

For more information visit kua.com/storm.

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Saturday’s numbers were: 23-27-47-18-02 Powerball: 15

Tonight’s $613 million prize, has a cash value of $329 million, much less than the $1.35 billion Mega Millions jackpot that a lucky player in Maine recently grabbed. That was the second-largest jackpot in the history of the game, but if you’re lucky enough to win tonight, it’s likely you’ll be able to get by.

The odds of winning happen to be about one in 292.2 million, but the prize money can be all yours if you can match the five numbers drawn and, of course, the Powerball.

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New data from the Energy Information Administration is showing total domestic gasoline stocks have decreased by 500,000 barrels of crude oil to 246 million barrels last week. On the other hand, gasoline demand increased slightly from 8.66 million barrels per day to 8.74 million barrels per day.

The increase in gas demand, alongside a reduction in total supply, is contributing to price increases, but increasing oil prices continue to play a leading role in pushing prices higher. Pump prices will likely continue to rise as crude prices continue to climb as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues on threatening oil production.

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This type of virus can pose a risk to wild and domestic bird populations. Because wild birds can be infected with this virus and not appear sick, we recommend people minimize direct contact with wild birds by using gloves. If contact occurs, wash your hands with soap and water, and change clothing before having any contact with healthy domestic poultry and birds. Hunters are advised to field dress game birds in the field whenever possible and practice good biosecurity to prevent any potential disease spread. Learn more about precautions hunters should take to reduce the risk of spreading HPAI.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is continuing to monitor for HPAI in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and other partners. We ask everyone to assist this effort by reporting all sightings of birds found sick or dead of unknown causes to the bird mortality database.
Learn more about avian influenza.

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