6 Things to Know in Florida for May 2

Your daily look at news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today

NEW US INTERIOR SECRETARY TOURS EVERGLADES

New Interior Secretary Sally Jewell took an airboat ride through Florida's Everglades on Wednesday during one of her first official trips as leader of the agency responsible for national parks and other public lands, highlighting the importance of a massive wetlands restoration project.

HOUSE PASSES VERSION OF TEXTING WHILE DRIVING BILL

The Florida House on Wednesday passed its own version of a bill that bans texting while driving. It now goes back to the Senate, meaning the proposal's fate is uncertain as the Legislative session ends Friday. The House version includes an amendment that allows police to use drivers' mobile phone records against them only when texting causes a crash resulting in death or injury.

COURT COULD DECIDE ON IMPRISONING KIDS FOR LIFE

Florida's highest court may consider whether U.S. Supreme Court decisions banning automatic life sentences without parole for people under 18 should be retroactive. A 1st District Court of Appeals panel this week certified the question to the Florida Supreme Court.

HOUSE PASSES FLORIDA HEALTH CHOICES PROGRAM

The Florida House has agreed to give $900,000 to an online marketplace where individuals and businesses can shop for health insurance. The House passed the bill Tuesday, despite questions from Democrats who said it was ridiculous to give more money to the struggling Florida Health Choices program.

MAN ACCUSED OF ABUSING 911 SYSTEM

A St. Petersburg man is accused of misusing the 911 system to request "Kool-Aid, burgers and weed." Police say he made more than 80 calls on Sunday.

COCONUT GROVE FATAL SHOOTING

The mother of Fred Gibson, who was shot to death outside his house in Coconut Grove this past Saturday, is holding a candlelight vigil/walk tonight. It starts at his aunt's house at 3517 Hibiscus Street & ends where he was killed, 3883 Charles Terrace. After the walk, his family is expected to speak out against gun violence at Elizabeth Virrick Park, 3255 Plaza Street.

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