DeSantis Awards Law Enforcement Bonuses; Program Has Now Reached 9,400 Recruits
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Monday that the state has awarded more than 9,400 law enforcement officers $5,000 recruitment bonuses since launching the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program in 2022.
At an event in Panama City, DeSantis presented checks to recruits from Bay, Franklin, Gulf, and Walton counties, highlighting the state’s continued push to recruit, reward, and retain law enforcement officers.
Rep. Jimmy Patronis declines to clarify key policy positions as data contradicts claims
Rep. Jimmy Patronis declined Mid Bay News’s follow-up questions but defended conservative healthcare, border, and transparency positions in earlier interviews.
Government shutdown looms, what will be impacted in Northwest Florida.
At 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, the U.S. government runs out of money. From Eglin to TSA checkpoints, thousands of Northwest Florida workers could see furloughs, delayed pay, or closed gates. Here’s what you need to know about how the shutdown will hit our community.
Air Force Revises Physical Fitness Program, Adds Two-Mile Run and Updated Body Composition Standards
Beginning January 1, 2026, the Air Force will pause all Physical Fitness Assessments to transition to an updated program, with scored testing resuming September 1, 2026. The revised Physical Fitness Assessment includes a two-mile run, body composition measurement using the Waist-to-Height Ratio, and a 100-point scoring system across cardiorespiratory, muscle strength, and core endurance categories. Airmen will be required to test every six months, with diagnostic tests offered from March 1 through August 31, 2026, to help service members adapt to the new standards.
Mid Bay News interviews Rep. Jimmy Patronis, focusing on big tech and local issues
Congressman Jimmy Patronis sits down with Mid Bay News to discuss military readiness, reigning in big tech and other issues effecting Northwest Florida
Patt Maney Returns to Okaloosa County, Highlights Legislative Wins and New Committee Roles
Rep. Patt Maney returned to Okaloosa County after an extended legislative session in Tallahassee, where he highlighted more than $23 million in local funding secured, new state laws he helped pass, and his 2026 committee assignments, including chairing the Justice Budget Subcommittee.
Patronis, Scott push for National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk after assassination
Charlie Kirk’s legacy may soon be honored nationwide — Florida lawmakers are leading a push for a National Day of Remembrance on his birthday.
Rep. Jimmy Patronis introduces HOMEFRONT Act to overhaul military housing rules
Should military families be trapped in outdated homes because of historic preservation rules? A new bill from Rep. Jimmy Patronis says no.
Patronis Introduces Bill to Ease Professional Licensing for Veterans, Spouses
Congressman Jimmy Patronis has introduced a bill that would allow veterans and their spouses to transfer professional licenses across state lines for up to three years after military service, aiming to reduce barriers as families transition to civilian life.
Rep. Patronis introduces bill to combat “woke” AI in federal government
Is artificial intelligence the next battleground in America’s culture wars? A new bill from Rep. Jimmy Patronis says yes — and aims to shut down what he calls “woke” AI.
