Florida minimum wage rises to $15 an hour
Original reporting: Cheyenne Paquette
For those who make minimum wage, there is going to be an increase in paychecks. In Florida, the minimum wage has increased from 14 dollars per hour to $ 15 per hour.
This increase began on Sept. 30th; this is the first increase to the minimum wage since the 2020 voter-approved constitutional amendment.
In 2020, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment to gradually raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. The measure passed with nearly 61% of the vote and set a schedule for annual increases to help workers earn higher wages. Before the amendment, Florida’s minimum wage was $8.56 an hour in 2020.
Commission based and employees who receive tips also received a one dollars increase. Tipped employees’ direct cash wage rose from $10.98 per hour to $11.98 per hour. This is based on a fixed $3.02 tip credit.
Halloween safety tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe
Original reporting: Sarah Diamond
With Halloween almost here, there are a few key safety tips that are important to keep in mind when heading out to trick-or-treat or enjoy any fun activities.
When trick-or-treating, walk with younger kids and keep them within sight. Also, encourage older kids to stay together and travel in groups.
When choosing a child’s costume, it is also important to choose bright colors so the child is easier to see in the dark. Also, adding reflective tape or strips to costume and treat bags to make them easier to see.
Giving kids a glow stick or a flashlight will also help them be seen by oncoming cars, as well as making sure shoes and costumes fit well to avoid trips and falls while walking.
If out driving, make sure to be alert and paying attention to the road, slow down and watch for young trick-or-treaters walking on the road.
If wanting to wear a mask, maybe choose the option of non-toxic makeup instead of mask which can block vision.
By following these safety tips, families can help make Halloween a fun and safe experience for everyone. Taking a few extra precautions before heading out can help prevent accidents and allow children and families to enjoy the holiday while staying safe.