Government and politics

Despite passing through the Florida Legislature, Gov. Rick Scott vetoed a bill Friday that would have wrested the Gainesville City Commission's control over GRU and given it to an independent governing body.

The bill prohibits state money for any service by an organization that also provides abortions. It will affect half a dozen clinics, including Planned Parenthood facilities that serve the poor under Medicaid and other federal programs.

The expansion of the Right To Try Act will allow dying Florida patients access to non-FDA approved medical marijuana starting July 1.

The seven independent groups worked together to fight privatization and budget cuts threatening the Marion County Library System.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed the 33 bills into law, according to a news release from his office.

As the commissioners prepare for their annual spring budget workshops, they are asking citizens to offer their opinions on the variety and quality of the programs and services in Gainesville.

The Florida case has remained pending in federal court in Tallahassee, and attorneys for the state filed a document Wednesday arguing it is unnecessary for Hinkle to issue a permanent injunction because the issues have been resolved.

Gov. Rick Scott on Wednesday signed nine bills, including a high-profile measure requiring local law-enforcement agencies to submit "rape kits" to be tested. Until Wednesday, Florida had not required law-enforcement agencies to submit rape kits for testing

Gov. Rick Scott said Tuesday that he's directed the flags to be flown at half-staff beginning immediately until sunset Monday to honor the victims of the attacks.