TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed eleven bills into law today, enacting measures that address state-owned land annexation, pawnbroker transactions, migrant vessel handling, and various property and utility regulations.

Among the bills signed was CS/CS/SB 384, allowing municipalities to annex state-owned lands under specific conditions, and CS/CS/HB 715, tightening oversight and requirements for roofing services in the state. The Governor also approved CS/SB 830, addressing the disposition of migrant vessels arriving in Florida waters, reinforcing maritime security protocols.

Other legislation includes CS/CS/HB 429, updating regulations between motor vehicle manufacturers and franchised dealers, CS/CS/HB 481, designating anchoring limitation areas to protect Florida’s waterways, and CS/HB 1137, restricting local governments from prohibiting certain utility services.

Governor DeSantis also authorized HB 307, which provides bonuses for employees of property appraisers’ offices, and CS/CS/SB 678, which revises pawnbroker transaction form requirements. Additionally, CS/CS/HB 253 enhances penalties for specific motor vehicle offenses, CS/SB 388 addresses trust fund regulations, and CS/CS/HB 1359 initiates a feasibility study for a statewide pawn data database.

This legislative package reflects the Governor’s continued focus on property protection, maritime security, consumer regulation, and utility access across Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the appointments of two new judges to the state’s judicial benches. Mark Robens has been appointed to the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court, while Marlon Weiss will serve on the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court. Both appointments fill vacancies left by retiring judges in their respective circuits.

Mark Robens Appointed to Sixth Judicial Circuit Court

Mark Robens, of Dade City, will now serve as a Judge on the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court. Robens has been a Partner at Stichter, Riedel, Blain & Postler, P.A. since 2022 and has worked with the firm since 2014.

A dedicated legal professional with nearly a decade of experience in private practice, Robens brings a strong background in civil litigation and corporate law to the bench. He earned his bachelor’s degree from St. John Vianney College Seminary and received his juris doctor from Stetson University College of Law.

Robens fills the judicial vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Stearns.

Marlon Weiss Appointed to Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court

Marlon Weiss, of Hollywood, has been appointed to the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court. Weiss currently serves as a Partner at Armstrong Teasdale, LLP, a position he has held since 2021. Prior to his private practice career, Weiss clerked for the U.S. District Court, gaining valuable experience in both criminal and civil matters at the federal level.

Weiss holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and earned his juris doctor from Emory University School of Law. He will fill the judicial vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Judge Tuter.

Both appointments reflect Governor DeSantis’ continued efforts to strengthen Florida’s judiciary with accomplished, experienced legal minds dedicated to upholding the law and serving their communities.

J Willie David, III
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe officially announced her candidacy for Orange County Mayor during a press conference today at Cypress Grove Park. Uribe is seeking to succeed outgoing Mayor Jerry Demings, who is term-limited in 2026.

During the event, Commissioner Uribe secured early endorsements from the Orange County Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police and the Orange County Corrections Fraternal Order of Police, signaling strong support from local law enforcement groups.

Uribe, who was first elected to the Orange County Commission in 2018, addressed supporters with a message focused on community and practical leadership.

“I’m not here today as a politician. I’m here as a wife and mother, as your neighbor who believes that common sense and bold action can and will change lives,” Uribe told the crowd.

She emphasized her optimism about the county’s future, adding, “With this campaign, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to realign local politics around bold leadership, practical solutions, and people-first priorities.”

Uribe joins a growing list of candidates in the 2026 race, including Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore-Russell and businessman Christopher Messina, who have already filed to run.

Other potential contenders being discussed include:

• Former U.S. Congresswoman Val Demings, who previously considered a run in 2014.

• Former U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy

• Former Orange County Commissioners Emily Bonilla and Scott Boyd

• Former Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh

Stay connected with Florida National News (FNN) for continued updates on the 2026 Orange County mayoral race.

J Willie David, III
News@FloridaNationalNews.com