AGP Executive Report

Public Health: Florida DOH-Franklin lifted a water quality advisory for Carrabelle Beach after Enterococcus levels returned to acceptable guidelines, with results posted at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches. Infectious Disease Watch: Florida reported a week without new measles cases, holding at 154 cases across 15 counties this year, though health officials warn summer travel could bring more. Mosquitoes & Disease Prevention: Multiple reports say Google is seeking approval to release millions of lab-bred mosquitoes in Florida and California, aiming to reduce disease spread. Community Safety: JSO is investigating human remains found in a Jacksonville backyard, with DNA analysis planned; investigators say the bones may have been moved by an animal. Health Equity & Costs: Coverage highlights how Black and Latina women face higher medical bills, adding to ongoing scrutiny of unfair healthcare pricing. Mental Health Literacy: UNCP student Donavin Hansberry launched a nonprofit, Shift Toward Hope, focused on improving mental health awareness and early conversations. Wildlife Conservation: FWC unveiled Florida Wildlife Watch, a statewide participatory science project using trail-camera images to help monitor wildlife across millions of acres.

Healthcare Fraud Crackdown: DOJ says it secured convictions of six people in three weeks on health care fraud cases totaling about $1.1B, including a Fort Lauderdale trial tied to Medicare-brace schemes. Public Health & Safety: Florida hurricane prep coverage urges families to plan ahead, check evacuation routes, and make sure medically essential needs are covered before storms hit. Injury & Medical Risk: A Brooksville woman died after a June 1 crash at Lockhart Road and SR 50, while a Lake County jet ski crash sent three kids into the water after a PWC hit a tree. Legal/Accountability: DOJ’s fraud push adds to Florida’s broader enforcement climate, and local lawsuits highlight ongoing concerns about hospital-acquired injuries and serious crash harm. Infectious Threat Watch: USDA confirmed New World screwworm in Texas, raising questions about how close the parasite is to Florida and other states. Mosquito Control Tech: Google is seeking approval to release millions of sterilized mosquitoes in California and Florida to reduce disease spread. Community Health Support: A new 24/7 adult human trafficking hotline is launching for the FIFA World Cup period in Florida.

New World screwworm hits U.S.: USDA confirmed the first New World screwworm case in the U.S. since 1966 in a 3-week-old calf in South Texas, triggering quarantines, movement controls, expanded trapping, and sterile fly releases; officials say the food supply isn’t at risk. Public health alerts: FDA is investigating two fresh foodborne illness outbreaks—Listeria and Cyclospora—while continuing work on Salmonella linked to moringa supplement capsules. Medicaid access squeeze: Sunshine Rides says it will cut Medicaid non-emergency medical transport in rural areas and could fully eliminate statewide services unless Florida reverses payment cuts. Health care legal pressure: A Florida appellate court reversed a decision clearing a health company owner in a deceptive business practices case, sending it back for further scrutiny. Community health & wellness: A new hospice pediatric center opens in Florida, and local groups are pushing brain-healthy activities like Mahjong to help support memory and social connection. Emergency preparedness: Florida launched the Florida Incident Management Teams Foundation to boost workforce, deployment readiness, and operational support for all-hazards incident response.

Public Health & Safety: Florida health officials confirmed five Vibrio vulnificus (“flesh-eating bacteria”) cases in 2026, including in Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, Lee, Palm Beach, and St. Johns—a reminder to avoid seawater contact with open wounds and be cautious with warm coastal waters. Injury & Crime: A 17-year-old e-bike rider died after a Charlotte County hit-and-run; investigators arrested 33-year-old Angelica Brianna Clark and the case remains under investigation. Medical Research: UCF researchers say a simple probiotic may help treat acid reflux and potentially reduce esophageal cancer risk, funded by a Florida Department of Health cancer grant. Healthcare Access: Santa Rosa Medical Group plans a new primary care clinic in Cantonment opening in July to expand adult preventive and chronic care. Food Safety Lawsuit: A Florida mother and daughter sued Campbell’s and Walmart over alleged SpaghettiOs contamination by “actively moving” worms/parasites. Emergency Preparedness: With hurricane season underway, Washington County emergency managers urged residents to update kits and plans now. Tech & Mosquito Control: Google is seeking approval to release millions of lab-bred mosquitoes in Florida to reduce disease spread.

Mosquito-borne disease fight: Google/Verily is seeking federal approval to release up to 32 million specially treated “good” mosquitoes in Florida (and California) as part of its Debug Project, aiming to reduce disease spread over time by using Wolbachia-infected males that can’t produce viable offspring. Public health & environment: A University of Georgia study warns that wild snakes across Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina are carrying multiple pathogens, including Salmonella and a fungus tied to snake fungal disease, raising extinction concerns for already vulnerable species. Invasive species push: Florida is relaunching the 10-day Florida Python Challenge (July 10–19) with a $10,000 top prize to remove Burmese pythons from the Everglades, after last year’s record removals. Health law spotlight: The Florida Bar Health Law Section named 10 attorneys to its 2026 Top 10 Under 40 awards, highlighting rising leaders in health law across the state. Local health infrastructure: Construction has started on FIU and Baptist Health South Florida’s Stantec-designed Helen and Jacob Shaham Academic Medical Center in Miami, a $162M academic hospital campus slated for completion in 2028. Safety & care access: AAA and Tampa General Hospital launched a safety campaign after a reported surge in serious e-bike injuries in the Tampa area.

OpenAI Lawsuit (Kids & Safety): Florida AG James Uthmeier filed a first-of-its-kind state lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, alleging ChatGPT misled users and harmed children, including claims tied to violent incidents, and seeking damages plus court-ordered changes. Mosquito Fight (Dengue/Zika): Google is seeking federal permission to release tens of millions of specially treated mosquitoes in California and Florida, aiming to curb disease spread—while critics question the plan’s risks and oversight. Medicaid Work Rules: CMS released new Medicaid requirements that could affect millions of adults in ACA expansion states starting Jan. 1, 2027, with major groups like pregnant people and people with disabilities exempt. Dementia Warning Signs (Driving): A new study links subtle changes in driving behavior to early mental clarity decline, suggesting drivers may show warning signs before dementia becomes obvious. Hospital Billing Costs: A policy push argues hospital pricing is driving unaffordable care, citing examples of extreme bills and calling for competition and reform. Property Taxes (Local Services): DeSantis’ homestead exemption proposal is sparking concern that big cuts could reduce funding for police, fire, parks, and road projects. Public Health & Summer Risks: Florida coverage also highlights rising “flesh-eating” bacteria concerns and summer safety guidance for people and pets.

AI & Child Safety: Florida became the first state to sue OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, alleging ChatGPT was marketed while concealing risks to children and enabling harm, including guidance tied to school shooters and self-harm. Public Health & Environment: Florida health officials warned about rising blue-green algae toxins in local waters, as officials also monitor mosquito threats tied to disease-control efforts. Mosquito Program: Google is seeking approval to release tens of millions of specially treated mosquitoes in Florida and California, aiming to curb disease spread. Health Policy & Access: Florida lawmakers moved property-tax changes forward while debates raised concerns about impacts on schools and local services, including health-related funding. Workplace Safety: A new look at U.S. workplace safety manager demands highlights how expanding rules are increasing training and compliance pressure across industries. Community & Wellness: Volusia County parks opened summer tubing at Blue Spring and DeLeon Springs, spotlighting outdoor wellness options for families. Safety & Crime: Authorities reported a fatal beach toll booth crash in Daytona Beach Shores and ongoing investigations into violent incidents and fraud schemes.

OpenAI Lawsuit: Florida AG James Uthmeier sued OpenAI and Sam Altman, alleging ChatGPT safety failures harmed children, including guidance tied to violence and self-harm, and seeking major damages plus court-ordered changes. Mosquito-Borne Disease Watch: Google/Verily is asking the EPA for approval to release up to 32 million lab-bred mosquitoes in Florida and California using Wolbachia to cut disease spread; public comments are open. Flesh-Eating Bacteria Alert: Florida health officials reported multiple Vibrio vulnificus cases this year, tied to warm saltwater exposure, as experts warn more infections may come with summer. Local Health & Safety: Lee County’s seasonal fertilizer ban starts June 1 to protect waterways and drinking water from nutrient runoff that can fuel harmful algal blooms. Healthcare Fraud Fight: GEICO filed a federal lawsuit targeting Florida health clinics, alleging fraudulent no-fault/PIP billing for medically unnecessary treatments. Women’s Health Access: Miami-Dade announced its inaugural Women’s Summit focused on healthcare access and affordability, plus violence prevention and economic security. Men’s Health Push: Craft Body Scan launched a Men’s Health Month campaign offering a Couples Heart & Lung Scan for $149 to encourage preventive screenings.

Public Safety & Health: A 17-year-old was shot and wounded on Clearwater Beach during a social-media-driven teen gathering, with police detaining several people and investigating other fights after the incident. Community & Violence: Ball State confirmed the death of 18-year-old freshman defensive back Gavin Yates-Lyons, one of three injured in a Tallahassee shooting near Florida State’s campus. Healthcare & Planning: Florida lawmakers and local officials are weighing how property tax reforms could affect mosquito control funding, as Lee County expands sterile mosquito releases by drone to better spread sterile males across hard-to-reach areas. Medical Tech & Care Access: Fertility Center & Applied Genetics of Florida launched an expanded evaluation program for embryo implantation failure, aiming to pinpoint why euploid embryos don’t lead to pregnancy. Hurricane Readiness: Florida emergency guidance emphasizes having a plan, keeping gas and device power ready, and building a medical-focused emergency kit ahead of the 2026 season.

Marijuana Policy Shift: The DOJ’s move to reclassify medical cannabis (Schedule I to Schedule III) is expected to unlock some federal tax benefits and spur new research, but states still face a patchwork of rules while the DEA weighs broader de-scheduling. Public Health & Water Safety: Florida’s DOH-Flagler issued a health alert for blue-green algae toxins in Haw Creek–Confluence of Dead Lake, warning residents not to swim or drink and to keep pets away. Mosquito Control Debate: Google is seeking EPA approval to release about 32 million specially treated mosquitoes across Florida and California to curb disease spread, with a public comment period underway. Budget Pressure on Health Services: Property tax cuts could threaten mosquito control funding, with Lee County’s Mosquito Control District warning it may lose millions. Cancer Care Community Event: Palm Beach Health Network is hosting a free National Cancer Survivor’s Day fashion show June 7 at Good Samaritan Medical Center, pairing survivors with care teams. Crash With Major Injuries: A Tesla crash on I-75 in Collier County killed three and seriously injured four, including a man who stopped to help. Cardiac Readiness: Miami-Dade Fire Rescue is promoting CPR and AED training during National CPR and AED Awareness Week, stressing that most cardiac arrests happen at home or in public.

Public Safety: A wanted driver fled deputies, side-swiped a marked PBSO patrol car, and ended up inside St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where his wife was a patient; the hospital was placed on lockdown and he was arrested without injuries reported. Injury & Health Risk: A 15-year-old was hospitalized with serious injuries after being rear-ended on an e-dirt bike in Pinellas Park; officials say the bike lacked lights and the teen wasn’t wearing a helmet. Infectious Disease Watch: Florida health officials warn “flesh-eating” Vibrio vulnificus is entering its peak season (June–September), with this year’s cases already outpacing last year in multiple counties. Community Mental Health: A Jacksonville church hosted a mental health summit to reduce stigma and connect residents to trauma and wellness support. Healthcare Guidance: HCA Florida Ocala Surgical doctors urged summer sun-safety—annual skin checks, sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds. Aviation Safety: A small plane flipped after a hard landing at Homestead General Aviation Airport; both men were treated for minor injuries.

Mosquito-Borne Disease Push: Google is seeking EPA approval to release up to 32 million specially treated mosquitoes in California and Florida to curb illnesses like West Nile virus, dengue, and Zika. HIV Medication Relief: Florida lawmakers restored $75M in one-time funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program through 2027, aiming to stabilize access and reverse earlier eligibility and coverage cuts. Health Insurance Access: BayCare and UnitedHealthcare reached a new multi-year agreement, keeping BayCare in-network for patients across West Central Florida as a May 31 deadline neared. Public Health & Safety: Beach officials warned residents to stay away from potential Blue Origin debris after a New Glenn rocket explosion at Cape Canaveral, citing possible health risks if pieces wash ashore. Local Health Policy: Florida lawmakers approved a $114B budget that includes major school readiness funding for North Central Florida counties. Community Wellness: A Florida TODAY guide highlights signs parents should watch for in children’s mental health during summer changes. Injury & Emergency Updates: A fiery three-vehicle crash shut down part of Tampa’s I-275, and a deputy-involved shooting in Oakland Park followed hours of negotiations with a knife-armed suspect.

Addiction Treatment Access: Oasis Recovery Center in Fort Myers says it now accepts Medicaid, expanding coverage for detox, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient/dual diagnosis care. Public Health Alert: Osceola County issued a rabies alert in Kissimmee after an unvaccinated cat tested positive; officials outlined a 60-day exposure zone and urged pet vaccination and avoiding wild animals. Medical Accountability: St. Lucie County juries convicted two people tied to “botched” surgeries at Cosmetica Plastic Surgery and Anti-Aging, with the owner facing more than 75 years. Environmental Health & Loss: WUFT reports Alachua County’s non-protected oak forests are shrinking fast, with projections that remaining stands could disappear within decades. Diabetes Care Update: The FDA approved Afrezza inhaled mealtime insulin for children and adolescents age 6+ with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Local Care Expansion: ASAP Dental Care expanded evening and weekend hours across Greater Jacksonville to reduce reliance on ERs for dental emergencies. Aviation Incident: Two separate Pembroke Pines small-plane crashes were reported near North Perry Airport/South Florida State Hospital, with occupants conscious and breathing and injuries reported in one case. Food & Wellness: Moody Tongue Sushi at Hilton West Palm Beach earned a MICHELIN Selection for a second straight year.

Hurricane Preparedness: The American Red Cross is urging Florida families to review disaster plans now that the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1, stressing a household kit (water, nonperishable food, meds, first aid, flashlight/radio, documents) and shelter planning, including pet considerations. Public Health & Safety: Florida officials and emergency managers are also pushing residents to prepare for storms even with forecasts calling for a below-average season, reminding people to know evacuation zones and keep supplies for at least three days. Blood Donations: OneBlood is issuing an urgent call for donations of all blood types, with extra need for O negative and O positive, to support local hospital transfusions. Cancer Research: Moffitt Cancer Center researchers report new findings on uveal melanoma metastasis, identifying a protein (GDF15) that may help explain why tumors spread from the eye to the liver. Nutrition & Weight Drugs: A large real-world study suggests many people who stop Ozempic-like GLP-1s don’t necessarily regain major weight, often by switching approaches or resuming treatment. Community Health: A Florida appellate court clarified that examinations under oath can be admissible in litigation, a ruling that could affect how health-related insurance disputes play out.

Measles Surge: Florida confirmed 4 new measles cases (3 in Orange County, 1 in Palm Beach), pushing the 2026 total to 154 as summer travel ramps up and the highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease spreads. Cancer Screening Breakthrough: Sarasota Memorial enrolled five sisters with a family history of pancreatic cancer in a study using LINFU (low-intensity non-focused ultrasound) plus endoscopic steps to catch abnormalities earlier. Maternal Health Support: Florida Blue expanded maternal health and well-being support programs, aiming to improve outcomes before and after birth. Opioid Accountability in Court: A judge granted a directed verdict for pharmacies in Florida’s opioid trial, ending a major push by hospitals to hold CVS/Walgreens/Walmart liable under state racketeering claims. Emergency Access Upgrade: Okeechobee County launched text-to-911 so residents can discreetly request help when calling isn’t safe or possible. Public Health & Safety: Florida reminded residents that feeding wildlife is often illegal and can increase aggression and dangerous human-animal encounters.

Colorectal Cancer Screening: The American Cancer Society is updating guidance to include a blood test option for people who avoid colonoscopy or stool tests—because the “best” test is the one you actually do. Planned Parenthood Access: Planned Parenthood of Gainesville will close June 26, ending in-person services (including STI screenings and vaccinations) while shifting some care to telehealth. E-Bike Safety Rules: Florida’s SB 382 would require e-bikes to stay under 10 mph near pedestrians, yield on shared paths, and use an audible signal before passing—aimed at reducing injury risk. HIV Funding: Florida lawmakers restored funding for HIV medication assistance after earlier cuts, easing patient fears it was temporary. Indian River Lagoon Restoration: Crews deployed more than 3.5 million “super clams,” pushing the Billion Clam Initiative past 100 million total to improve water quality. Local Health & Housing: Realtors report April home sales up in Pensacola, but warn higher mortgage rates and uncertainty could slow summer demand. Public Safety: A new cold-case arrest in Pinellas County links DNA to a 1998 armed sexual battery suspect.