Skyrocket
Florida’s latest unemployment numbers will be released — the first monthly report that includes the impact of the coronavirus shutdown. The question is not if the rate goes up, but by how much.
Also, on today’s Sunrise:
— Unemployment checks are in the mail, but there is still a backlog. The man brought in to fix Florida’s broken system says they are working 24/7 to make it easier for people to file a claim.
— Gov. Ron DeSantis’ new task force on reopening the state of Florida holds is holding its first meeting; they hope to produce a plan in less than a week. The Governor says they are also getting guidance from the White House.
— The state is releasing more information about fatalities in long-term care facilities for seniors, which account for about one-fifth of COVID-19 fatalities in the state. Democrats and advocates for seniors are calling for more transparency, denouncing a request from nursing homes that they get legal immunity for deaths that occur in their facilities.
— DeSantis is also under fire for the way the corrections department is responding to the pandemic. A group that works on behalf of inmates’ families says there is a real crisis behind the prison walls and guards are just as vulnerable as convicts.
— Good news for hemp growers. The USDA has approved Florida’s plan to ramp up the hemp program and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried says the first crop could be planted as early as next month.
— And the latest in Florida Man antics: A drag queen who fell asleep during his own show.