SUMMARY: An administrative law judge ruled that state regulators acted correctly in denying Green Thumb Industries’ (GTI) request to open medical-marijuana dispensaries adjacent to Circle K stores in Florida. Office of Medical Marijuana Use Director Christopher Kimball rejected the proposals due to concerns about safety, security, and compliance with state law, asserting proximity to convenience stores posed risks such as increased crime and accessibility for minors. GTI argued that there are no restrictions in Florida law against such locations, highlighting previous approvals for similar dispensaries. An additional case regarding a separate Ocala location is also pending review.

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The post Gas up and get medical pot? Florida officials, judge nix plans appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: Alico Inc., a major citrus grower in Florida, announced it will cease its citrus operations after this year’s harvest due to severe challenges from hurricanes and tree diseases, with production dropping 73% over the last decade. The Fort Myers-based company, which owns over 53,000 acres in Florida, will manage around 3,400 citrus acres through 2026 via third-party caretakers. Alico will also develop a portion of its land for commercial and residential projects. The decision will lead to layoffs of up to 172 employees, highlighting broader declines in Florida’s citrus production driven by disease and recent hurricanes.

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The post Major Florida grower to end citrus operations after years of hurricanes appeared first on www.abcactionnews.com

SUMMARY: A December AP-NORC poll indicates that immigration has become a top priority for Americans ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office, with nearly half of respondents highlighting border issues, a significant increase from the previous year. While Republicans largely support stricter immigration policies, including a border wall, Democrats focus more on the economy, with healthcare and political issues as second priorities. Young adults under 30 prioritize economic concerns like inflation and housing, showing less emphasis on immigration than older generations. Overall, economic issues remain paramount for most Americans as Trump prepares to implement his agenda.

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The post Immigration is a higher priority for Americans than it was a year ago, an AP-NORC poll shows appeared first on www.news4jax.com