AGP Executive Report

School Mental Health Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program tied to the Parkland-era effort. Public Safety & Readiness: Florida State Fire College training teams are building disaster response skills “before the rubble falls,” preparing medics for complex rescues. Heat & Wellness: Florida officials warn about hidden heat dangers and note it can take 7–14 days to acclimate, with thirst often arriving late. Food Safety: Florida reported about 50 cyclospora cases, with experts warning counts may be low and urging safer produce handling. Local Health & Community: Palm Beach County commissioners rejected the controversial Project Tango AI data center proposal after a packed hearing. Healthcare Access & Policy: A CDC nominee faced vaccine-safety questions in confirmation coverage, as debate over vaccine policy continues. Firearm Safety Tragedy: A 4-year-old fatally shot a 2-year-old cousin after finding an unsecured gun in a vehicle in Kissimmee. Care in Action: Habitat for Humanity welcomed new homeowners in the Middle Keys, marking multiple families’ path to stable housing.

School Mental Health Funding Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to stop cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program tied to the Parkland era, arguing a court order is being ignored and millions could vanish. Public Health Leadership Watch: Senators grilled CDC nominee Dr. Erica Schwartz on whether she’ll keep the agency protected from political pressure, as she pledged “radical transparency” while repeatedly declining to oppose vaccine/CDC policy changes. Florida Seniors & Costs: A Social Security COLA of about 3.7% for 2027 is expected, but analysts warn higher Medicare and drug costs could blunt the boost for Florida’s millions of recipients. Hemp Uncertainty for Florida Businesses: A pending federal hemp ban using a “total THC” standard is already worrying Florida retailers and farmers ahead of an effective Nov. 12 deadline. Health & Safety Alerts: A rare creek-water bacteria nearly cost a teen his foot in Florida, and Florida’s blood supply is under pressure as donations drop. Workplace Tragedy: A Marathon industrial accident left a worker dead after his body was “severed,” with OSHA notified. Gun Safety Reminder: A Kissimmee case is under investigation after a 4-year-old found an unsecured gun in a vehicle and shot a toddler. Cancer Research: A new study highlights pembrolizumab monotherapy improving outcomes in a specific advanced endometrial cancer group.

Food Safety Watch: Taco Bell is under investigation as cyclosporiasis outbreaks sickened thousands nationwide; some locations reportedly pulled ingredients like lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole and cilantro onion while officials look for a source. Public Health Update: CDC says the outbreak has surged to thousands of cases across dozens of states, with Michigan at the center and investigators still tracking likely food links. Florida Health & Wellness Case: A Miami doctor faces manslaughter charges tied to a “heart protocol” wellness ceremony where a patient allegedly received ketamine, MDMA and DMT before dying. Care Workforce & Access: A new push highlights how physician associates (PAs) are stepping into leadership roles to help health systems manage staffing strain. Community Health & Safety: Extreme heat continues to drive warnings and emergency responses across South Florida, including heat exhaustion cases treated by medics. Education Mental Health: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued to block cuts to a $1 billion school mental health grant program tied to hiring and training counselors.

Cyclosporiasis Watch: The CDC says cyclosporiasis linked to fresh produce has sickened 1,645 people in 34 states, including Florida, with more cases still under review—health officials urge careful produce washing and prompt medical care for severe “explosive diarrhea.” Food Safety in Florida: A Florida couple sued Publix over recalled GreenWise frozen blueberries, alleging E. coli illness after the July 3 recall. State Health Alert: Lee County warned residents to avoid Carousel Lake after harmful blue-green algae toxins were found near the south shore. Healthcare & Policy: United Way of Northeast Florida says Duval County’s Hazel Health telehealth contract ended, but free school-based mental health support continues through Full Service Schools and the 988 lifeline. Legal & Health Tech: Meta faces a lawsuit from 26 employees claiming AI systems penalized workers on medical or parental leave during May layoffs. Public Health & Food Regulation: Florida AG Uthmeier is investigating potassium bromate in shelf-stable baked goods, targeting major manufacturers and distributors. Housing & Wellness: A Florida House District 108 candidate forum highlights affordable housing as a top health-adjacent priority for voters.

School Mental Health Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program tied to the Parkland aftermath, arguing a December 2025 court order is being ignored. Heat & Safety: Doctors and weather experts warn that extreme heat is getting more dangerous as nights stay hot, raising the risk of heat illness. Drowning Preparedness: A new pediatric warning stresses that drowning can happen in seconds and calls for faster rescue and resuscitation training for families. Gun Safety Tragedy: In Kissimmee, authorities say a 4-year-old fatally shot a 2-year-old after finding an unsecured handgun in a car during a family vacation. Primary Care Access: Hobdari Family Health in Southwest Florida added Dr. Ali Zreik to expand adult primary care in Naples and Bonita Springs. Public Health Watch: CDC reports measles cases near the worst level since 1991, with summer travel expected to drive more spread. Outbreak Alert: Cyclosporiasis continues to spread across many states, including Florida, with guidance focused on food and water safety. Healthcare Workforce: Florida nursing homes and advocates are pushing for TPS exemptions as the Haitian workforce faces uncertainty. Policy & Care: Florida’s Stop WOKE Act ruling struck down parts affecting public university professors, with academic freedom advocates calling it a win for campus speech.

Parasitic Diarrhea Alert (Florida): Cyclosporiasis cases are rising across 31 states, including Florida, with the CDC reporting nearly 900 illnesses nationwide and advising strict hygiene and thorough washing of produce to reduce spread. Food Safety Probe (Florida AG): Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier launched an investigation into potassium bromate in certain flour products, citing health concerns and seeking records from General Mills. Algae Toxin Warning (Lee County): The Lee County DOH issued a health alert for harmful blue-green algae toxins at Carousel Lake-South Shore—no swimming, drinking, or water contact; wash exposed skin/clothes and keep pets away. Cancer Care Access (Insurance): A Florida man with rare blood cancer says a co-pay accumulator is blocking access to medication, despite manufacturer assistance. Wildlife Safety (Alligator Video): Florida wildlife officials are investigating a viral video of a woman petting an alligator, raising concerns the animal could be harmed or euthanized if it becomes human-tolerant. Community Health & Recovery: A long-awaited Miami mental health center is opening after decades of court-driven reform, aiming to divert people from abusive jail psychiatric conditions. Public Health & Environment: A sewage spill in LaBelle sent nearly 450,000 gallons of untreated wastewater into a drainage ditch feeding the Caloosahatchee River.

School Mental Health Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program tied to the Parkland, Florida shooting. Workplace Injury Law: The Florida Supreme Court loosened the standard for workers’ compensation claims in Bouayad vs. Normandy Insurance, restoring a broader “work performed” test for injuries. Public Health Alerts: Miami-Dade issued beach warnings after unsafe bacteria levels were found at three beaches, with extreme heat and Saharan dust complicating conditions. FDA Oversight: The FDA warned a Florida supplement maker about sanitation and allergen risks. Health Equity & Access: A Florida teen with sickle cell disease is urgently seeking rare, compatible blood donors for a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Care for Seniors: A new robotics company, Tombot, raised $7M to scale a lifelike robotic companion dog aimed at reducing loneliness for older adults. Safety & Emergencies: A 2-year-old was left in critical condition after a near drowning in a North Lauderdale pool. Heat Watch: South Florida remains under heat advisories as feels-like temperatures push into the triple digits.

School Mental Health Funding Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school mental health grant program tied to the Parkland, Florida shooting, arguing the funding should not be terminated despite a prior court order. Public Health Alert—Cyclosporiasis: The CDC is investigating a fast-growing Cyclospora outbreak reported in 31 states, with 843 cases reported nationally and Michigan leading; Florida has reported dozens, and officials say the source is still unclear, so people should be cautious with produce and follow food-safety guidance. Florida Weather & Safety: Severe storms hit North Central Florida, knocking out power for more than 17,000 customers, while a severe thunderstorm watch was issued for the Tallahassee area as Saharan dust and extreme heat loom. Invasive Species Update: A python-tracking team reached a 10-foot Burmese python guarding eggs near Everglades Holiday Park, highlighting how invasive snakes thrive in human-altered landscapes. Healthcare Policy & Costs: A new analysis ranks Utah as the lowest-burden state for retirement healthcare costs, underscoring how Medicare Advantage competition can lower out-of-pocket pressure—an issue Florida retirees watch closely. Local Community Wellness: A North Central Florida shelter’s “Purrs & Tales” program pairs reading practice with cuddle time for kittens, aiming to boost literacy and support adoptions.

School Mental Health Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program tied to the Parkland-era response. Heat & Outdoor Safety: A dangerous U.S. heat wave is building, with Florida residents urged to hydrate, seek cooling, and watch for heat stress signs. Florida Sports in the Heat: England beat Norway 2-1 in extra time in Miami’s sweltering conditions, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice and England’s staff citing illness/heat struggles for key players. FDA Sunscreen Update: The FDA approved bemotrizinol, a newer sunscreen UV filter, but critics say U.S. rules still treat sunscreen too much like a high-risk drug, limiting broader protection. Cyclospora/Diarrhea Watch: Health coverage continues to track cyclosporiasis/cyclospora outbreaks spreading across multiple states, including Florida, with food-safety guidance emphasized. Local Health/Community: Florida also saw reports tied to patient access and care gaps, including coverage of clinics and coverage red tape. Public Safety: A Central Florida crash investigation followed a pedestrian death, while other local reports highlighted arrests and community service activity.

Public Health: Florida is among states tracking a fast-rising cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to “explosive” diarrhea, with federal and state officials still searching for the source as case counts climb across dozens of states. Heat & Safety: A dangerous heat dome is building nationwide, and South Florida is bracing for extreme heat and humidity around the World Cup quarterfinal—raising risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke for fans and athletes. Florida Care Access: Florida’s disability services pre-enrollment list dropped by more than 5,200 people in a year, but over 15,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities still wait for services as new budget funding aims to keep the system moving. Healthcare Workforce: Florida healthcare providers are bracing for Haitian workforce losses as TPS protections lapse, with advocates warning the impact could hit seniors and vulnerable patients hardest. Local Health & Community: A Hillsborough clinic will pay $115K after a vet turned away over a service animal dispute, highlighting how small access issues can become big health-and-dignity problems. Environment & Wellness: The Trump administration finalized a major Endangered Species Act enforcement change, narrowing what counts as “harm” to wildlife—sparking concern from conservation groups about habitat loss.

Cyclospora Alert: Florida health officials say cyclosporiasis is spreading, with confirmed cases reported across multiple counties including Highlands, Lee, Broward, and Miami-Dade—residents are urged to wash produce under running water, sanitize prep surfaces, and practice strict hand hygiene. Heat & Storm Safety: Miami-area World Cup fans and players face a hazardous heat advisory and possible lightning/thunderstorms that could delay play under FIFA rules. Elder Care Under Scrutiny: Investigators describe alleged abuse at unlicensed assisted living facilities in Polk and Osceola counties, including claims of violent mistreatment of elderly residents; bond was denied in a recent hearing. Medicaid Access Update: Planned Parenthood and other providers regained federal Medicaid reimbursements after a one-year defunding provision expired, reopening coverage for non-abortion services. TPS Work Permits: Haitian TPS holders in Florida received a short extension of work permits to July 24, easing an immediate employment cliff for healthcare and hospitality employers. Public Health Reminder: Florida Keys officials warn about sargassum seaweed on beaches—rotting piles can irritate lungs/eyes and may sicken pets if they sniff or eat it.

Public Health Watch: Cyclosporiasis is spreading nationwide, with at least 2,844 cases reported across 32 states as of Friday; Michigan is hardest hit, but Florida has confirmed cases too, and health officials say the true total is likely higher because not everyone gets tested. FDA & Cancer Care: The FDA approved Sarclisa Escena, a subcutaneous version of Sarclisa for multiple myeloma, aiming to reduce the burden of frequent IV infusions. Florida Seniors & Workforce: A Supreme Court decision could end Temporary Protected Status for about 145,000 Haitians in Florida, including many in health care, raising fears of staffing shortages for aging residents. Food Safety & Risk: A new report on infant deaths tied to unsafe sleep environments faces criticism from vaccine-safety advocates for not including immunization status in its analysis. Heat & Air Quality: Saharan dust and a long heat wave are expected to worsen conditions across Florida, with guidance to limit time outdoors and protect sensitive groups.

Heat & Safety: A Saharan dust surge is pushing extreme heat across Florida, with heat advisories and feels-like temps near 105–110 in some areas—urging residents to stay in A/C, hydrate, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Waterborne Illness: Marion County confirmed 15 cyclosporiasis cases in 2026 so far, part of a wider U.S. surge tied to contaminated food or water and known for “explosive” diarrhea. Mental Health: A new Tallahassee-area nonprofit is expanding suicide prevention training, including an ASIST workshop at the American Red Cross. Health Coverage Costs: Copay assistance can be diverted by insurers through copay accumulator programs, leaving patients to pay more out of pocket for specialty drugs. Immigration & Care Access: South Florida Haitians with TPS are rallying as protections are set to expire, with many working in health care and facing major uncertainty. Public Health Watch: West Nile virus season is arriving earlier and harder than in decades, with CDC reporting cases across 23 states. Local Care Spotlight: Friends of Jacksonville Animals paused heartworm treatment funding, shifting care back in-house and asking for donations. Workplace Injury Law: Florida’s Supreme Court loosened the standard for when workplace assault injuries can qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.

Cyclosporiasis Watch: Florida health officials say cyclosporiasis cases are rising, with 50 reported statewide since May 1 (31 acquired in Florida) as the CDC tracks clusters across at least 17 states; symptoms can include weeks of watery, sometimes “explosive” diarrhea, and officials urge careful food and water hygiene. Food Safety & Outbreak Spillover: Taco Bell locations in multiple states pulled ingredients tied to the current “explosive diarrhea” parasite concerns, underscoring how quickly outbreaks can hit menus and consumer behavior. New Vector Concern: A Florida report highlights the deer tick—known for spreading Lyme disease—now being found in the state, raising the stakes for tick prevention and early treatment. Local Health & Community: Sanibel completed its Community Park & Frannie’s Preserve trail restoration after Hurricane Ian, using state forestry recovery funding to rebuild native habitat and improve resilience. Health Policy: A Florida Democratic leader argues the state’s high SNAP payment error rate may be intentional, warning it could cost Florida up to $1B if errors persist. Care Access: MyCarePro expanded health insurance education support to 32 states, including Florida, to help residents navigate Medicare, COBRA, and coverage transitions.

Asthma & Nutrition: A new study in Thorax links higher vitamin A and vitamin D levels with better lung function in asthma, and vitamin D with slower “aging” signals in lung cells. Parkinson’s Care: A large U.S. study finds deep brain stimulation (DBS) tied to lower death risk and much lower rates of being placed in long-term care for Parkinson’s patients. Drug Costs Fight: A Florida man says his insurer used a manufacturer copay card meant to reduce specialty drug costs, forcing him to hit his own out-of-pocket maximum first. Public Health Alert (Florida): Cyclosporiasis—an “explosive” diarrhea parasite—continues spreading across multiple states, with CDC reporting hundreds of cases nationwide and Florida among the hardest hit; officials urge careful produce washing and thorough cooking. Local Health Access: Health First adds bariatric/reflux surgeon Dr. Patrick Domkowski to practices in Melbourne and Palm Bay. Community & Safety: Marco Island council approved emergency-preparedness upgrades, including generator storage and a new police patrol boat, and moved regular meeting times earlier starting in October.

New Hospital Opening: Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital officially began taking patients July 8, adding 306 beds, labor and delivery services, NICU capacity, and heart cath labs for Polk County. Public Health & Food Safety: CDC reports cyclosporiasis cases are rising, with Florida tied to the outbreak as officials track sources and warn about severe, watery diarrhea. Clinical Policy: Advocates are pushing Congress to eliminate Medicare chronic care management copays, arguing the small monthly charge can still add up to big costs and limit patient access. Health Tech Investment: Jacksonville-based CurifyLabs raised $14M to expand automated personalized medication compounding, aiming to speed safer custom dosing. Asthma Research: A new study links higher vitamin A and D levels to better lung function in asthma, with vitamin D tied to slower lung-cell aging in adults. Local Safety & Care Access: A Tampa pain clinic agreed to pay $115K after barring a disabled veteran from bringing a service dog to an appointment. Injury & Tragedy: Casselberry police identified two people killed in a deadly crash tied to a suspected drug trafficker who fled authorities. Sun & Weather Risk: Heat advisories continue across South Florida as residents are urged to stay cool and hydrated.