The time frame for collecting unemployment benefits would be shortened under legislation put forth in the state House, trying to address a yawning state budget deficit and a growing federal IOU.

Incoming Gov. Rick Scott continues his “inaugural appreciation” tour of the state with a whirlwind trip across Florida Wednesday.

With Florida facing a $2.5 billion budget gap, rising Internet sales over the Thanksgiving holiday renewed calls Monday for the state to join others looking to make it easier to collect sales taxes from out-of-state and mail-order merchants.

As the Senate readies for its special session on Tuesday, incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, named committee and subcommittee chairs.

The Legislature is poised to act quickly and positively to delay for two years a major increase in the unemployment compensation tax.

It's a move that could save beleaguered employers as much as a twelvefold increase on their unemployment tax bills.

The legislation zipped through both Senate and House committees. Its supporters claim it will stimulate job creation and allow businesses to stay afloat in a down economy.

At least 19 states have banned it. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have tried to prohibit it. But none of that is enough for Ellyn Bogdanoff.