Story perspectives

New Bills Target Minors' Care and Public Smoking

2/5/2026

Center

Melo's Healthcare Bill

Rep. Lauren Melo introduces a bill to empower the Attorney General to investigate and penalize healthcare practitioners violating the minors' sex-reassignment ban.
Critics warn the bill's vague language could criminalize routine medical care.
Senator Joe Gruters would expand the definition of 'public place' to ban smoking and vaping, including marijuana, in parks and sidewalks.
If passed, the measure could take effect on July 1.

Left

Florida Lawmakers' Bill

Florida lawmakers are advancing a bill to ban the term "West Bank" in K-12 schools and state agencies, replacing it with Judea and Samaria.
The move aligns with rightwing Israeli government terminology and asserts historical claims to the land.
Critics, including Democratic representatives, say it erases Palestinian narratives.
Sarasota faces Senate Bill 1628, which would restrict local governments from reducing climate emissions and undermine climate initiatives amid rising sea levels.

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Melo's Healthcare Bill

Rep. Lauren Melo introduces a bill to empower the Attorney General to investigate and penalize healthcare practitioners violating the minors' sex-reassignment ban.
Critics warn the bill's vague language could criminalize routine medical care.
Senator Joe Gruters would expand the definition of 'public place' to ban smoking and vaping, including marijuana, in parks and sidewalks.
If passed, the measure could take effect on July 1.

1 / 2