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Tag: APP Local & State Politics

  • Political changes, new laws coming in 2026 to Ohio

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    OHIO — The new year is upon us, and with it come some major political changes for the Buckeye State. 

    Several new laws will take effect in 2026, including new laws targeting drug overdoses in schools, “Keith’s Law” and the finalization of cellphone policies for schools. 

    For more information on the latest state laws, click here.

    House Bill 57: Jan. 19, 2026

    The new law allows a city, local, exempted village or joint vocational school district to obtain and maintain a supply of an overdose reversal drug for an emergency. The district’s board of education will be required to adopt and implement a policy regarding the supply’s maintenance and drug’s use at each school operated by the district. 

    Policies must include: 

    • A requirement that each school conform to the requirements of division (C)(1) of section 3715.50 of the Revised Code
    • The amount of the drug’s supply to be maintained at each school
    • A requirement that each school’s supply be stored in a secure location that is easily accessible to school employees or contractors
    • A description of any training regarding the supply’s maintenance and drug’s use that school employees or contractors may be required to complete

    Under the law, a board of education can accept donations of money from any person or entity to purchase overdose reversal drugs, with the money used only for that purpose. The board must track the spending of the donated funds. 

    District superintendents must also file a report as soon as is practical following the use of an overdose reversal drug. The use must be reported to the board of education and the parent or guardian of the student who received the reversal drug. An annual report must also be made of the district’s use of overdose reversal drugs in emergencies to the Department of Education and Workforce.

    House Bill 144: Jan. 19, 2026

    “Keith’s Law” was passed in October, and aims to enhance first responders’ ability to assist individuals with special needs during emergencies.

    Through the law, a voluntary statewide database is established for those with special needs to share relevant and vital information with first responders. Officials said the information will be shared with each county’s 911 system. The systems will be required to provide the appropriate information to first responders when dispatched to ensure first responders are prepared.

    The database will be administered by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities in partnership with the Ohio Department of Public Safety

    Minimum wage increase: Jan. 1, 2026

    Minimum wage will increase on New Year’s Day from $10.70 per hour for non-tipped employees and $5.35 per hour for tipped employees to $11 per hour for non-tipped employees and $5.50 for tipped employees. 

    The increase is 30 cents for non-tipped workers and 25 cents for tipped workers.

    The minimum wage will apply to employees of businesses with annual gross receipts totaling more than  $405,000 per year.

    Minimum wage increases each year because of a constitutional amendment passed in Nov. 2006 stating that Ohio’s minimum wage increases Jan. 1 each year by a rate of inflation. Ohio’s minimum wage is tied to the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers over the 12-month period prior to September.

    At smaller companies with annual gross receipts of $394,000 or less per year after Jan. 1, and for 14- and 15-year-olds, the state’s minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. The state wage is tied to the federal minimum wage, which requires an act of Congress and the president’s signature to change.

    School Cellphone policies: Jan. 1, 2026

    While DeWine signed the bill requiring every Ohio school district to establish an official policy regarding cell phone use during school hours, aiming to minimize student use in K-12 schools, it still takes effect next year.

    The policies must emphasize that student cellphone use be limited during the school day, reduce distractions caused by cellphones in class settings and if a school board determines it appropriate, or if included in a student’s individual education program, allow for students to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices for student learning, to monitor a health concern or to address a health concern.

    While most schools have adopted policies ahead of the 2025-2026 school year, by state law a policy prohibiting cellphone use by students during the instructional day must be set by Jan. 1, 2026.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • The history behind North Carolina’s state capitol building

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    On this week’s episode, we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of North Carolina’s state capitol. 

    Kara Deadmon, the site administrator, will share the building’s story, from its fiery destruction to its relocation.

    She talks about the enslaved who helped build it, and even etchings on a window dating back to the 1800s.

    About the Podcast

    With the speed of the local news cycle, it’s easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

    Listen and Subscribe

    Apple | Spotify | Stitcher

    Join the Conversation

    Do you have any thoughts or questions for Tim? Weigh in on X with the hashtag #TyingItTogetherNC. Afterward, rate the podcast and leave a review to tell us what you think!

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Florida black bear hunt ends Sunday

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    FLORIDA — Today marks the final day of a statewide black bear hunt. It’s the first one in Florida since 2015.

    The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) only issued about 170 bear hunting permits.

    The commission says it set this limit to restrict the bear population from growing.

    Even if hunters had 100% success this year, FWC said it believes the population would be stable and not decline in the future.

    Hunters are not required to bring harvested bears to manual check stations, they only need to call FWC and report their results.

     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Akron man deported after living in U.S. for 44 years

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    CLEVELAND — Brittani Sisouphanh is spending her first holiday season without her father Sone Rassavong who was recently deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to his home country Laos.

    What You Need To Know

    • Brittani Sisouphanh is the daughter of Laotian immigrant Sone Rassavong, who she said was wrongfully arrested and deported by ICE earlier this year

    • The United States is home to an estimated 245,000 Laotian Americans

    • U.S. President Donald Trump is upping restrictions on nationals from more than a dozen countries he’s classified as “high risk,” including Laos

    Sone Rassavong first moved to the United States in 1981 as a refugee and lost permanent resident status after being accused of violating a protection order, Sisouphanh said. He was living in Texas at the time, she said, and lacked access to reliable transportation to check in for parole.

    “He didn’t understand what really comes with probation. So he had missed a day to go check in with his parole officer, and when he missed that appointment, they put a warrant out for his arrest,” Sisouphanh said. “He did not know that you check in once a month, and he just — they put him in jail, for missing that.”

    Sisouphanh said her father was detained by ICE officers that same year after serving several months in jail. 

    Still, she said, her father never received full due process.

    “Under ICE custody, they told my dad, again, no legal representation. They told my dad that if he signs this paper, he can go home. So he signed the paper,” Sisouphanh said. “And my dad has broken English. He doesn’t understand very well, but he didn’t know signing the paper, he was signing his status to be changed from permanent resident to deportation.”

    After signing the deportation order, Sisouphanh said, her father moved back to Ohio and had been living in Akron under a work visa.

    He checked in with Homeland Security and applied to renew his work authorization card each year, Sisouphanh said.

    “We went there just going to check in like normal, not knowing that my dad wasn’t going to come back out with us. I didn’t give any time for him to say bye to family or anything like that. Whatever he had on is what he had to go with,” she said.

    Rassavong is one of tens of thousands of Laotian Americans who became at risk of deportation after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing full restrictions and an entry ban on all immigrants from Laos and Sierra Leone.

    The White House wrote online last week that the limitations imposed under the proclamation are part of Trump’s promise “to restore travel restrictions on dangerous countries” and secure the nation’s borders.

    Sisouphanh said she and other family members have had limited contact with Rassavong since October.

    “It was so hard to be in communication with him. I had to call lots of places, talk to lots of people. I was able to find him on an app, and we were able to communicate that way. But, he did go to Laos and he did share some experience. Getting there was very traumatizing, inhumane,” she said.

    Rassavong is now being detained in Laos, being transferred to the country from a U.S. detention center last week, Sisouphanh said.

    “It’s going to be a culture shock, for sure,” she said. “He left Laos when he was 15, and he stayed in a camp in Thailand till he was 17, and then came to America when he was 17.”

    The impact of Rassavong’s deportation is being felt by many others in the family, Sisouphanh said. He was the head of their family as the father of seven children and grandfather of 13 grandchildren.

    “It changed my way of living because I was living with him the day to day life. And when the day he went, I had work … I just didn’t know how to deal with it,” said Logan Rossavong, Sone Rassavong’s youngest child.

    Still, Rossaving’s family said they’re holding on to hope.

    “When we were on FaceTime, he lost weight …  but right now he’s doing good,” Logan Rossavong said. “He’s trying to keep it, you know, positive, trying to make the best of it.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Tampa Bay families react to DHS reunification program decision

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Experts say thousands of immigrants currently in the U.S. will be affected when the Department of Homeland Security ends family reunification programs for seven countries, citing fraud and security concerns.

    What You Need To Know

    • DHS is ending Reunification Parole Programs for immigrants from seven countries

    • DHS officials say they’re ending the programs due to poorly vetted immigration process

    • Catholic Charities officials say many people impacted are looking for other pathways to remain in the country

    • Attorney Ricardeau Lucceos says many Haitians are feeling the impact, and he’s hoping to help


    Ricardeau Lucceos moved to the U.S. from Haiti with one goal, to look for a better life. He’s been living in Tampa since 1998, and many people know him as a community lawyer.

    Lucceos says he works closely with the Haitian community through his business as a personal accident attorney, and through his community service.

    Recently, he said he’s been hearing about concerns regarding the end of the family reunification parole program.

    And he says he’s seeing the impact firsthand.

    “It becomes a strain on the families who come here,” he said. “And it’s a bigger problem for them, too, because before they come here, they run looking for safety and now they have to go back to nothing.”

    The program reunited families from countries like Haiti, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador and more.

    “The program was a legal pathway for many to immigrate to the U.S.,” said Jose Fernandez, an immigration counselor with Catholic Charities. “It gives them the opportunity to migrate and be here with their family, to wait here and apply here, that was the purpose of the program.”

    Fernandez said the program was a success for the families his organization serves, and helped reunite loved ones who haven’t seen each other in years.

    “Some have mentioned that they want to return, and others are looking for another legal pathway to stay,” he said.

    Officials with the Department of Homeland Security say the department is returning parole decisions to a case-by-case basis. They say abuse of the parole system allowed poorly vetted immigrants to enter the country.

    While Lucceos says the termination of the program will impact families, he said it also could lead to something else — re-building elsewhere.

    “We, as immigrants, need to start making some decisions in terms of rebuilding our home rebuilding our nation where we come from,” he said.

    Lucceos is working to help more families stay in Haiti by creating Prehacopa, a business prioritizing national development for the country.

    He hopes U.S. leaders will come together to help, too.

    Ricardeau said that while ending the family reunification parole programs might be a setback for some in Tampa, he’s hopeful it will also encourage Haitians to work to bring change back to their own country as well.

    Those who are under the reunification parole program have until Jan. 14 to either leave or find another pathway to stay.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • 2025: End of year extravaganza

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    On this week’s episode of Tying it Together, it’s our annual holiday extravaganza. Host Tim Boyum and political insiders Billy Warden and Brian Lewis look back at 2025.

    They will honor longtime Gov. Jim Hunt, who died Dec. 18. The trio will also look back and review another wild year of politics in North Carolina and beyond. 

    Warden is a marketing and communications expert with RLF Communications. Lewis is a lobbyist with New Frame. 

    About the Podcast

    With the speed of the local news cycle, it’s easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

    Listen and Subscribe

    Apple | Spotify | Stitcher

    Join the Conversation

    Do you have any thoughts or questions for Tim? Weigh in on X with the hashtag #TyingItTogetherNC. Afterward, rate the podcast and leave a review to tell us what you think!

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Two women partner to provide gifts for families affected by deportation

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Two Bay area women have a mission this Christmas. They are working to bring holiday cheer to children whose lives have been affected by deportation.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Department of Homeland Security reports more than 2.5 million immigrants have left the U.S.
    • Two women are working to collect gifts for children of immigrant parents

    • The gifts will be given to families affected by deportations


    From baby dolls to toy cars, every inch of this room is filled with toys — toys that Grizayda Delgado has collected for children of immigrant parents.

    “We wanted to bring a smile to all the children because, despite what’s happening, the children are not at fault,” she said. 

    Delgado said that after seeing families affected by recent deportations and stricter immigration policies, she wanted to do something extra for them this year.

    She went to several homes and came up with a gift list for more than 200 children. She said that some of the families are facing hardships.

    “There are families that have been months without working,” Delgado said.

    The Department of Homeland Security reports that more than 2.5 million immigrants have left the U.S. and that more than 600,000 of those have been deported.

    Earlier this month, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin released a statement saying in part, “Illegal aliens are hearing our message to leave now. They know if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”

    Grizayda said the rise in immigration enforcement has affected people in Polk County.

    That’s why she and Aidalina Plaza are helping to support children who have been affected.

    “It feels good to be able to help someone, and just to see that smile in that little kid’s face after everything that they’re going through, there’s no words,” Plaza said.

    The women aren’t only collecting toys. They said that people have also donated food and clothing. They plan to keep working to help these kids beyond the holiday season.

    Right now, the women say they need of items for teenagers and will be accepting those donations until Wednesday. 

    They’ll be delivering those gifts Christmas morning, and you can reach Plaza at (813) 704-7959 if you’d like more information.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • Space Florida hopes to advance aerospace industry with proposed state funding

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    BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his $117 billion proposal for Florida’s next fiscal year budget.

    This includes hundreds of millions of dollars going towards improving the Space Coast, which brings in about $9 billion to the state annually.

    What You Need To Know

    • Space Florida is set to receive $17.5 million for operation costs from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year

    •  One of the recommendations is to use $5 million for wastewater capacity along the Space Coast

    • Environmentalist groups like the Marine Resource Council want to see better infrastructure in place to uphold the growth and protect the Indian River Lagoon 

    • Space Florida says it’s looking forward to working with state and local partners to come up with the best solutions it can


    That recommendation includes money for organizations like Space Florida, as well as about $5 million to go towards wastewater capacity.

    But as the industry grows, and more and more launches lift off from our Space Coast. So does concern from environmentalists for Florida’s waterways, particularly the Indian River Lagoon.

    Gov. DeSantis’ budget proposal includes $93 million through the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) spaceport improvement program, and would set aside $17.5 million into the operating budget of Space Florida.

    “The focus of the funding is to really engage and continue to engage prospective aerospace companies and similar efforts across research and development, as well to really just accelerate the amount of activity we have going on,” explained Space Florida President and CEO Rob Long.

    Space Florida serves as the state’s finance and development authority tasked with helping the aerospace industry grow.

    “The new funding and everything is going to continue to do that and really allow us to accelerate and really put Florida at number one in all of the categories when it comes to the aerospace industry,” Long said.

    But an important piece of this for aerospace funding is using $5 million in startup funding to Space Florida in order to work alongside state agencies and establish additional wastewater capacity for Florida’s commercial launch providers.

    It comes as some Brevard County residents have raised concerns about a draft permit renewal for Blue Origin.

    This would allow the company to dump 500,000 gallons of wastewater per day into the Indian River Lagoon.

    “I do think there’s some restoration work that needs to be done, and there is water quality work that needs to be done with the Blue Origin discharges, just like all of them,” said Marine Resources Council Executive Director Dr. Laura Wilson.

    The Marine Resource Council is a nonprofit tasked with serving, protecting and restoring the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

    And while she wants to see the continued growth of the aerospace industry and wants to work with Space Coast corporations, she feels the use of public funds would be more helpful in the hands of local municipalities.

    “We have spills, we have breaking pipes, we have old infrastructure and a very rapidly growing population that’s going to continue growing,” Wilson said. “And we need to do a better job of looking to the future with our infrastructure rather than just reacting to the present.”

    Wilson said she wants to see actual work behind stormwater infrastructure, low-impact development, green stormwater infrastructure and how the land can be developed responsibly to mimic natural processes as opposed to concreting everything over and plopping in a pond.

    Spectrum News 13 also asked Space Florida about how it hopes to use the funding specifically for wastewater capacity, and it said it’s looking forward to working with state and local partners to come up with the best solutions they can.

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    Brandon Spencer

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  • Ahead of Trump’s visit, N.C. residents town say they feel squeezed by high costs

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    ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (AP) — She had worked 22 days straight in her job as a technician at an engine plant to save up, and now Daijah Bryant could finally do what she was putting off: Christmas shopping.

    What You Need To Know

    • President Donald Trump will visit the eastern North Carolina town of Rocky Mount on Friday, the second time this month he will have traveled to a presidential battleground state to focus on the economy and affordability concerns

    • The high prices Trump promised to solve during his 2024 campaign persist as a liability for the president and his party heading into next year’s midterm elections

    • In Rocky Mount, residents say they feel the same financial strains many Americans say they are under, with high prices for groceries, housing and utilities among their top concerns

    • Trump, meanwhile, is urging patience and says the economy is trending upward


    Bryant pushed her cart out of a Walmart in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and loaded her sedan’s backseat with bags of gifts. While they would soon bring joy to her friends and family, it was difficult for the 26-year-old to feel good about the purchases.

    “Having to pay bills, if you happen to pay rent and try to do Christmas all at the same time, it is very, very hard,” she said with exasperation.

    Ahead of President Donald Trump’s Friday evening visit to Rocky Mount, some residents say they are feeling an economic squeeze that seems hard to escape. The uneasy feeling spans political affiliation in the town, which is split between two largely rural and somewhat impoverished counties, although some were more hopeful than others that there are signs of reprieve on the horizon.

    This will be Trump’s second event this month aimed at championing his economic policies ahead of a consequential midterm election next year, both held in presidential battleground states. Similar to Trump’s earlier stop in Pennsylvania, Rocky Mount sits in a U.S. House district that has been historically competitive. But earlier this year, the Republican-controlled legislature redrew the boundaries for the eastern North Carolina district to favor their party as part of Trump’s push to have GOP-led states gerrymander their congressional districts to help his party retain its House majority for the last half of his term.

    Rocky Mount may be in a politically advantageous location, but the hardships its residents report mirror the tightening financial strains many Americans say they are feeling, with high prices for groceries, housing and utilities among their top concerns. Polls show persistently high prices have put Americans in a grumpy mood about the state of the economy, which a large majority say is performing poorly.

    Trump has insisted the economy is trending upward and the country will see some relief in the new year and beyond. In some cases, he has dismissed affordability concerns and encouraged Americans to decrease their consumption.

    ‘Without the businesses, it’s dead’

    Crimson smokestacks tower over parts of downtown Rocky Mount, reminding the town’s roughly 54,000 residents of its roots as a once-booming tobacco market. Through the heart of downtown, graffiti-covered trains still lug along on the railroad tracks that made Rocky Mount a bustling locomotive hotspot in the last century.

    Those days seem long gone for some residents who have watched the town change over decades. Rocky Mount has adapted by tapping into other industries such as manufacturing and biopharmaceuticals, but it’s also had to endure its fair share of challenges. Most recently, financial troubles in the city’s government have meant higher utility prices for residents.

    The city has been investing to try to revitalize its downtown, but progress has been slow. Long stretches of empty storefronts that once contained restaurants, furniture shops and drug stores line the streets. Most stores were closed Thursday morning, and not much foot traffic roamed the area.

    That’s left Lucy Slep, who co-owns The Miner’s Emporium jewelry store with her husband, waiting for Trump’s promised “Golden Age of America.”

    The jewelry store has been in downtown Rocky Mount for nearly four decades, just about as long as the 64-year-old said she has lived in the area. But the deterioration of downtown Rocky Mount has spanned at least a decade, and Slep said she’s still hoping it will come back to life.

    “Every downtown in every little town is beautiful,” she said. “But without the businesses, it’s dead.”

    Slep’s store hasn’t escaped the challenges other Rocky Mount small businesses have endured. Instead of buying, more people have recently been selling their jewelry to the shop, Slep said.

    Customers have been scarce. About a week out from Christmas, the store — with handmade molded walls and ceilings resembling cave walls — sat empty aside from the rows of glass cases containing jewelry. It’s been hard, Slep said, but she and her husband are trying to make it through.

    “This year is just not a jewelry Christmas, for whatever reason,” she said.

    Better times on the horizon — depending on whom you ask

    Slep is already looking ahead to next year for better times. She is confident that Trump’s economic policies — including upcoming tax cuts — will make a marked difference in people’s cost of living. In her eyes, the financial strains people are feeling are residual effects from the Biden administration that eventually will fade.

    Optimism about what’s to come under Trump’s economy might also depend on whether residents feel their economic conditions have changed drastically in the past year. Shiva Mrain, an engineer in Rocky Mount, said his family’s situation has not “become worse nor better.” He’s been encouraged by seeing lower gas prices.

    Bryant, the engine technician, feels a bit more disillusioned.

    She didn’t vote in the last election because she didn’t think either party could enact changes that would improve her life. Nearly a year into the Trump administration, Bryant is still waiting to see whether the president will deliver.

    “I can’t really say … that change is coming,” she said. “I don’t think anything is going to change.”

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Associated Press

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  • Lumbee Tribe set to recieve Federal Recognition

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    After more than 100 years pursuing full federal recognition, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is set to receive recognition. The National Defense Authorization Act, which includes provisions to recognize the Lumbee, passed the U.S. House and Senate and heads to the president’s desk. 

    Who are the Lumbee?

    The Lumbee Tribe, or the People of the Dark Water, is a group of Indigenous people whose tribal complex is in Pembroke, North Carolina. 

    The ancestors of the Lumbee came from various tribal backgrounds, sheltering together while seeking safety along the Lumber River, also known as the Lumbee River, through times of colonization, disease and war, according to the tribe’s website.

    They were recognized by the state of North Carolina as an Indigenous tribe in 1885.

    Today, the tribe consists of almost 60,000 members and their tribal territory spans four counties — Robeson, Scotland, Hoke and Cumberland — their website states. 

    What difference will federal recognition make?

    Gaining federal recognition is a milestone for any Indigenous tribe. 

    With federal recognition, the Lumbee Tribe will now be allowed to access resources, such as the Indian Health Service, the ability to take land into trust and the rights of self-governance.

    Federal recognition also allows for the Lumbee to be covered by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). 

    Part of NAGPRA requires federal agencies and institutions that receive federal funding to work with recognized Indigenous tribes in returning human remains and cultural objects.

    Prior to federal recognition, if the Lumbee wanted to have any items or ancestral remains repatriated, a federally recognized tribe would have to work with the Lumbee on a joint request for repatriation, according to the Department of the Interior. 

    Why has it taken so long to become federally recognized?

    Since 1888, the Lumbee Tribe has been working toward federal recognition, but their efforts have been rejected by the government. 

    In 1956, Congress recognized the Lumbee as an Indigenous tribe, but denied them of any federal benefits that are associated with federal recognition, which they have been fighting for since. 

    During their 137-year push for recognition, they have received backlash from other tribes. 

    The Eastern Band of Cherokee, North Carolina’s only federally recognized tribe, has opposed the recognition of the Lumbee out of fear that the federal grants given to recognized tribes would decrease. 

    However, the backlash the Lumbee has received comes from tribes across the nation, not just the Eastern Band of Cherokee. 

    Critics from other tribes claim that the Lumbee do not have a clear historical or genealogical background that proves their Indigenous history, according to a letter sent to Congress by the Eastern Band of Cherokee and eight additional tribes in 2022.

    Historically, the Lumbee were accepting of inter-tribal and inter-racial marriages – with the formation of the tribe originating from their ancestors of different tribal backgrounds seeking safety.  

    According to the tribe’s website, the Lumbee counter this argument by explaining that they come from “survivors of tribal nations from the Algonquian, Iroquoian and Siouan language families, including the Cheraw and other affected tribes.”

    Will the Lumbee be allowed to participate in gaming?

    With federal recognition, the Lumbee will now be allowed to create a reservation. This is crucial in determining whether they can open a casino.

    Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, only federally recognized tribes with tribal sovereignty are legally allowed to build and open casinos, according to the National Indian Gaming Commission.

    This means that any casinos that a federally recognized tribe wishes to build must be on the tribe’s own reservation.

    While the Lumbee have said that gaming is the least of their concerns while fighting for recognition, legally the tribe can now participate. 

    Will the Lumbee legally be allowed to grow and sell marijuana?

    Due to tribal sovereignty, it is possible that the Lumbee will be legally allowed to sell marijuana, but only on tribal land. 

    In North Carolina, it remains illegal to grow, use or sell marijuana. 

    However, in 2021, it was legalized for the Eastern Band of Cherokee to sell medical marijuana on tribal land. In 2023, a referendum was passed to allow the sale of recreational marijuana as well. 

    So, if the Lumbee choose to allow the growth and sale of marijuana, their tribal sovereignty could make it legal. 

    What will the process look like from here/what’s next?

    With the National Defense Authorization Act receiving a 77-20 Senate vote Wednesday, it was sent to President Donald Trump’s desk, where it awaits his signature. 

    Trump has previously expressed his support of federally recognizing the Lumbee Tribe. 

    After Trump signs the act, the Lumbee will be able to control their own economic growth with the establishment of a reservation. 

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Blair Hamilton

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  • DeSantis suggests ending all tolls for Florida residents

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    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped an idea during a Wednesday cabinet meeting that could save Florida residents hundreds of dollars a year — shifting the cost of toll roads to non-residents.

    During the meeting, DeSantis suggested that out-of-towners should be footing more of the bill for Florida’s 700-plus miles of toll roads. 

    DeSantis has given residents toll relief in the past by discounting costs by 50% while drivers hit 35 or more tolls in a single month. His current suggestion would mean a 100% discount for Floridians, and shift the cost completely to non-residents.

    “How long do we keep the tolls? These tolls, they’ve been here since I can remember, like as a kid, the tolls on the turnpike,” DeSantis said Wednesday. “You know, at what point is all this going to be paid off now? Now maybe we have uptake. Look, you could charge the visitors, and they could probably support it all and give our Florida residents a break. I think that would be a really good idea.”

    DeSantis did not give any details on how the toll program would work or how the pricing structure would make up for the funds lost if residents no longer pay tolls.

    In the previous half-off program, state officials said it saved motorists about $400 each in 2023, with a total cost of about $500 million to the state.

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    Jason Delgado

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  • Kyle Kondik discusses early expectations about 2026 midterms

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    Political prognosticator Kyle Kondik joins host Tim Boyum to talk about early expectations for the 2026 midterm elections.

    They will talk about the nation’s most watched Senate race for next year, for North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis’s seat. They will also discuss how redistricting could impact the power in Congress, and whether affordability and the cost of living will drive voters’ choices in the midterms.

    About the Podcast

    With the speed of the local news cycle, it’s easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

    Listen and Subscribe

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    Join the Conversation

    Do you have any thoughts or questions for Tim? Weigh in on X with the hashtag #TyingItTogetherNC. Afterward, rate the podcast and leave a review to tell us what you think!

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • CAIR responds after DeSantis declares it ‘foreign terrorist organization’

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    TAMPA, Fla. — (DEC. 16 UPDATE): The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), along with a law firm and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced the filing of a federal lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis. 

    The suit comes days after the governor declared CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization. 

    According to CAIR, the lawsuit challenges what the organization calls DeSantis’ “blatantly unconstitutional” executive order targeting the Council on American-Islamic Relations, America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and its Florida chapter, CAIR-Florida.

    CAIR-Florida plans to host a press conference in Tampa to address Tuesday afternoon to address the lawsuit.


    PREVIOUS STORY: The Florida chapter and the national headquarters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) announced Tuesday they plan to file a lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis.

    It comes one day after the governor declared CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization.

    The Florida chapter of CAIR says it will fight it out in court. 

    CAIR Florida says it was an attack on their First Amendment rights, that the accusations are baseless and that they look forward to proving that in court. 

    Hiba Rahim, CAIR Florida’s interim director, called the governor’s remarks an attack on the Constitution.


    “If you are truly American, America first, then you have to prioritize fighting against these types of attacks and standing with minority groups,” Rahim said. “Whether they are Muslim community or any other minority group. Because today the Muslims, tomorrow, someone else.”

    She added: “To our Governor, your designation has no basis in law or fact. You do not have the constitutional authority to unilaterally declare any American or an American institution a foreign terrorist group. Nor is there any basis to level this smear against our organization.”

    DeSantis posted an executive order (Florida Executive Order 25-244) to social media Monday night, declaring both CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. The order said CAIR is an unofficial U.S. cover representing the Islamic community to conceal ties to Islamic extremist groups like Hamas.

    At a press conference on Tuesday in Miami, DeSantis said he welcomes the lawsuit.

    “I welcome the lawsuit because what will happen is that will give the state of Florida discovery rights, (to) be able to subpoena the bank records,” he said. “It would give us even more reason, I believe, and so this is something I know our attorney general is ready, willing and able to be fighting on this.”

    Rahim says she worries there will be threats, and that now is the time for all faiths to come together. She said the organization has nothing to hide.

    “We will respond to whatever comes our way — piece by piece, day by day,” she said. “And in the meantime, we will continue to uphold our vision and mission, which is to protect Americans and to enhance people’s understanding of Islam and Muslims and to defend civil rights.” 

    DeSantis says members of the legislature are crafting legislation to stop Sharia Law and that he hopes to codify these protections for Floridians against CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood in future legislation.

    “I think you’re going to see the legislature probably mirror what Texas has done, and ultimately that’ s going be in the best interest of the people,” DeSantis said.

    DeSantis added that CAIR has the right to sue Florida, but that the state’s attorney general has the right to get the financial information Florida needs to uphold the laws here.

     

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    Jeff Van Sant, Spectrum News Staff, Keith Landry

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  • Protesters demand resignation of city leader facing child sex crime charges

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    Editor’s Note: This article discusses sexual assault. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can call RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673. 

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Some Whitehall city and community leaders are calling for the resignation of Whitehall City Council member Gerald Dixon after he was jailed and charged for alleged inappropriate sexual conduct with children.

    What You Need To Know

    • Protesters gathered out front Whitehall City Hall, calling for the resignation of Whitehall City Council member Gerald Dixon

    • Gerald Dixon is facing charges for alleged inappropriate sexual conduct with children

    • Gerald Dixon says he does not plan to resign

    Protesters gathered out front Whitehall City Hall Wednesday night, calling for the resignation of Whitehall City Council member Gerald Dixon.

    “Whitehall City Council does not care. It creates a scary environment,” said Michael Young, City of Grace pastor.

    Following a year’s long multi-state investigation, Dixon was arrested, jailed and charged for child sex crimes dating all the way back to the 1990s. Eight victims have been identified so far. 

    Dixon spent one night in jail before he was released on his own personal recognizance due to a court paperwork issue.

    “’I’m not going to put blame on any other organization I don’t know their processes, but it is frustrating because we promised victims that they’re safe and now they’re not. Well, I don’t want to say they’re not safe but that umbrella that we were providing them with him being incarcerated is no longer there,” said Whitehall Police Deputy Chief Shawn Wilson.

    Hours after being released from jail, Dixon showed up at city hall where he was sworn back into office. Spectrum News asked him that night if the allegations against him were true, and Dixon declined to comment.

    “I’m making absolutely no comment on that. None,” said Dixon.

    Whitehall’s mayor called for Dixon’s resignation at the rally.

    “It is my expectation that he resign his seat from city council. Now I have a follow up. I have been able to speak with city council members, a few of them, and they have the heart, the means and the motivation to actually remove this councilmember from his seat on city council,” said Michael Bevins Whitehall mayor.

    Whitehall’s city attorney says it would take a vote from every other member of council to remove Dixon.

    “I wanted to hear what everybody had to say at this rally. Obviously deeply concerned about the situation. I’m not sure of all the details but I certainly would hope that Mr. Dixon would step down,” said Amy Harcar, Whitehall City Council member. 

    Demonstrators prayed, chanted “Dixon must go” and even concerned children in the community spoke out.

    Dixon told Spectrum News he does not plan to resign.

    “Because the people elected me, and I have not been brought before a jury of my peers and whatever else it is and so here I am,” said Dixon.

    Dixon is due back in court on Dec. 23. 

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    Emani Payne

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  • St. Pete council votes to approve extension for Tangerine Plaza developer

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The St. Petersburg City Council voted this week to give an extension to the developer of Tangerine Plaza.

    PREVIOUS: South St. Pete redevelopment plans stall for Tangerine Plaza

    It’s a project in south St. Pete that would include affordable housing and a grocery store. 

    The city gave the Sugar Hill Group 18 months to secure funding for the project and come up with a plan.

    But the group says it needs another 12 months. 

    One City Council member raised concerns about the lack of secured funding, but representatives from the city and county were on hand to lay out what it’s going to take to get the plan approved and funded within the 12 months.

    The agreement would’ve expired on Jan. 2. Now, the group has another 12 months.

    Developers say they hope to break ground late next year. 

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Nida Allam challenging Rep. Valerie Foushee in Democratic rematch

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    Durham County Vice Chair Nida Allam is launching her campaign for the Democratic primary in North Carolina’s 4th Congressional District.

    What You Need To Know

    • Durham County Vice Chair Nida Allam says she will challenge U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee

    • Foushee represents the 4th Congressional District, which includes the city of Durham

    • Allam in 2022 ran against Foushee, who won the Democratic primary by 9 percentage points

    She will challenge incumbent Democratic Rep. Valerie Foushee, who is seeking a third term. She has represented the district since 2023.

    “I’m running for Congress because in a moment when our community faces dueling crises of Republican authoritarianism and corporate billionaire greed, we need leaders in Washington who will actually fight to deliver the brighter future we deserve and desperately need,” Allam said in a statement announcing her candidacy. “We cannot wait three more years pretending that a status quo that is failing us today will protect our communities tomorrow.”

    Allam’s candidacy sets up a rematch between the two Democrats.

    In 2022, Foushee beat Allam by 9 percentage points in the Democratic primary for the right to succeed retiring Democratic U.S. Rep. David Price. 

    Since then, Republicans who control the state legislature have redrawn the state’s congressional districts twice, to tilt more races in favor of their party. But the 4th District remains heavily Democratic.

    For the 2026 election, the 4th District will include the Democratic strongholds of Durham, Carrboro and Hillsborough. Foushee won re-election in 2024 with roughly 72% of the vote, trouncing her Republican opponent.

    The district’s Democratic primary in 2022 included former American Idol contestant Clay Aiken, drawing national attention. The race showed the divide between progressive and centrist Democrats, a division that will be on display again.

    On Thursday, Allam announced endorsements from Sen. Bernie Sanders and organizations including Justice Democrats and Leaders We Deserve, which was co-founded by David Hogg.

    In a statement to Spectrum News 1 Rep. Foushee said, “You can look at my record to show that I am not just paying lip service to our shared progressive values but instead working to advance legislation like the ICE Badge Visibility Act, the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, and the Block the Bombs Act…. Over the next few months I look forward to earning the support of the voters of the Fourth District and continuing to serve as their voice in Washington for another term.” 

    Foushee said she has received endorsements from Gov. Josh Stein and Democrats including Reps. Alma Adams and Deborah Ross.

    Allam, 31, has served on the Durham Board of County Commissioners since December 2020. She grew up in Wake County and was the first Muslim elected to public office in North Carolina.

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    Reuben Jones

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  • Florida state parks need nearly $760 million in repairs, state report says

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    DUNEDIN, Fla. — A new report says Florida state parks are in need of nearly $760 million in repairs over the next decade. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Report said Florida state parks are in need of hundreds of millions of dollars in repairs

    • Two-thirds of the money is recommended for repairing visitor centers, cabins, pavilions, restrooms and more

    • Other needed money would go to repairing roads, upgrading wastewater infrastructure and stabilizing shorelines


    The report comes from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and lays out areas of need.

    For those who visit our state parks, like Dustin Patrick, he said he wouldn’t mind some improvements.

    “Fixing the roads coming in would be good,” he said. “The parking lots during the summer, they just fill with water.”

    Republican State Senator Gayle Harrell said this report is a good first step toward funding outdated infrastructure.

    “I think it’s critical needs first, and then you face things, and you say OK, next step,” she said. “What are the next most serious things?”

    The report recommends two-thirds of the money for repairing visitor centers, cabins, pavilions, restrooms and more.

    Around a quarter of the money is recommended for repairing roads running through the parks, and another 10% toward replacing and upgrading wastewater infrastructure and stabilizing shorelines.

    The report also touches on other needs as well.

    Andrew Harris with the Sierra Club is hopeful the legislature will move forward with these repairs, and that Honeymoon Island will see improvements.

    “I think a lot of parks, especially North Florida, Central Florida, are going to need the majority of those funds, but some of it will come here too,” he said.

    The legislature previously approved $15 million for state park improvements for this year.

    Compared to the 2024 fiscal year, $59 million was spent on maintenance.

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Toy industry impacted by tariffs this holiday season

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    TAMPA, Fla. — It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many, and the start of a busy shopping season. But for some families, they’ll be thinking twice about their shopping decisions and keeping an eye on the price tag.

    What You Need To Know

    • Brick City Bricks in Plant City says fluctuating tariffs having an impact on their industry
    • The local Lego store is looking to get more people through its doors during a busy shopping season


    All aboard the Lego train, this time of the year transports Gregg Williams to his childhood.

    “It’s the love of Lego, the love of Christmas and bonding time with the family,” he says.

    He’s the owner of Brick City Bricks in Plant City. In the eight years his store has been in business, this time of year is one of the busiest.

    “From now until Christmas, I’d say 40 to 50% of our sales could come from here,” he says.

    But he has been concerned this year, because of the fluctuating tariff prices on imported goods such as Lego.

    “Most of our Legos come from Mexico, so overseas tariffs and all other tariffs going into effect, they’ve kind of been bouncing back and forth,” he said.

    Williams says people have expressed their concerns regarding Lego prices already. The Toy Association released the latest information on the tariff impact last month.

    The association stated it has been closely monitoring major global trade and tariff developments that may affect toy industry operations and costs.

    While the tariffs are having a pricing impact on Lego, it’s also keeping shoppers like Lee Longoria on the hunt for the best prices.

    “I’m still shopping around, still comparing prices and see if the other stores haggle with prices, that’s one way people can save money, talking to the managers the store owner,” he says.

    Economists report holiday spending to be lower this year than in previous years, in part due to sales growth and the tariffs.

    But Williams is staying positive, looking to get more people though the doors.

    “If you get joy out of it, and you know people spend a little bit on their hobby, that’s what it’s all about,” he says.

    The Trump administration says it put these tariffs in place to reduce the trade deficit. Meanwhile, Brick City Bricks will also be having sales in-store this weekend. And Plant City Mainstreet will also be offering free wrapping if you shop local, free of charge.

    That is happening Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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  • St. Pete closing in on downtown trail purchase

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    TAMPA, Fla. — St. Petersburg is one step closer to buying a tract of railroad land to convert into a trail downtown, connecting the historic gas plant district to the Pinellas Trail.

    What You Need To Know

    • CSX has agreed to sell its mile-long stretch of downtown land to St. Petersburg for $1 million, according to City Councilman Corey Givens, Jr.  

    • Once approved by city council, nearby businesses will contribute an additional $6 million to construct a trail

    • The trail will connect the Gas Plant District with the Pinellas Trail

    • When it’s finished, the city will lease portions of the trail back to the businesses for 99 years


    “The City of St. Petersburg and CSX have been duking it out, but they were able to negotiate and come to terms of settlement. And this is a win-win for both the city, CSX and the residents in general,” said Councilman Corey Givens, Jr., who represents District 7.

    Once approved by the city council, Givens says St. Pete will purchase the nearly mile-long tract of land for $1 million.

    Ellison Developers will kick in another $2 million and Mark Ferguson, owner of Ferg’s Sports Bar, will contribute $4 million to create the trail. The city will then lease portions back to the businesses for 99 years.

    “This is an opportunity for us to connect First Avenue South with Fifth Avenue North along the Pinellas County Trail,” said Givens. “There will also be an opportunity for you to eat along that trail, for you to live along that trail, there’s so many new developments that’re happening along this area.”

    The goal is to create a kind of “live work play” area around this trail and Tropicana Field, something Ferg’s owner Mark Ferguson believes may keep the coveted Rays around a bit longer.

    “It was a hard decision, but you look over 99 years, what’s going to happen to that area, it’s only going up. This will be a great other factor bringing more people downtown, in a safer and healthier way,” Ferguson said.  

    Givens says the city plans to use “in town community redevelopment area” tax dollars to fund the city’s million-dollar stake. That money, Givens says, could sunset as early as 2032.

    “As I walk this railroad, I feel like I’m walking the steps of my own history,” said Givens.

    The councilman is the fourth generation of his family to live in St Pete. He says his great-great-grandfather laid rail in the area. To be at the forefront of the redevelopment means so much more than any political talking point.

    “For so long, this area has been blighted, it’s been unkept, and this is an opportunity for us to have more than just parking spaces,” Givens said.

    “Just like the Beltline in Atlanta, the more trails you have, the more people will use them. More people will be off the roads and more people into businesses,” Ferguson said.

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    Andy Cole

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  • Immigration attorney shares advice for clients looking to travel

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The holiday season involves traveling for many, but for several immigrant families here in the Tampa Bay area, there’s hesitancy about any travel plans.

    And one has been a permanent U.S. resident for nearly 20 years.

    What You Need To Know

    • An immigration attorney says many of her clients are hesitant to travel this holiday season
    • The attorney’s advice is that residents or those with pending cases carry their legal documents
    • She says there have been cases where immigration enforcement has stopped or questioned her clients about their legal statuses
    • One family shares the impact this hesitancy is having on their annual travel plans


    Immigration lawyers say fewer people are traveling because of stronger immigration enforcement by the Trump administration.

    A picture shows a glimpse into the life of Adriana.

    “This picture was taken at my dad’s birthday party, where he turned 95. This is all of the family together,” she says.

    Adriana, who did not want her identity revealed even though she’s been a permanent U.S. resident for 16 years, says increased immigration enforcement concerns her because of the uncertainty about what would happen if she were detained.

    And it made her think twice about her annual travel plans to see her family in Colombia, with her husband, Osvaldo.

    “We have this fear of going and not being allowed back into the country,” she says.

    It’s filled her with anxiety, thinking about leaving the country. Osvaldo is a citizen as well; he also did not want his identity revealed to protect his wife. 

    He says their concerns would keep his wife from seeing her elderly parents.

    “It makes you think twice more about traveling to visit your family and that shouldn’t be there, you’re going to visit family, you’re going to have a good time,” he said.

    Immigration attorney Danielle Hernandez has heard similar stories from the families she serves. She says there have been cases where immigration enforcement has stopped or questioned her clients about their legal statuses.

    “We’ve heard of residents being detained, sometimes they have infractions that they’re not aware of that have immigration consequences, then we have people who are going through the right process and have immigration cases pending who are rightfully anxious about being detained,” says Hernandez.

    She’s advising permanent residents who are planning to travel to carry all legal documentation, and for those who have pending cases, to carry receipts of those applications.

    Adriana says despite her concerns, it’s a risk she’s willing to take to see her loved ones.

    “We all go with faith that we’ll return because we have our employment here, and it would just hurt not coming back knowing I have my life here,” she says.

    A life she’s worked hard to build and one she hopes to continue calling her forever home.

    The immigration attorney says even those traveling by car — regardless of the distance — could still be stopped and questioned about their legal status.

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    Lizbeth Gutierrez

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