As a rare snowstorm was bearing down on northern Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday declared a state of emergency for the region, readying the National Guard and state agencies to respond as needed. Alabama’s governor also declared a state of emergency.
As part of the preparation, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation posted a bulletin reminding health insurers and managed care organizations that the emergency order suspends restrictions on early prescription refills. The move allows people to refill needed medications before they may be socked in by the elements.
By early Tuesday, schools and state offices across the Florida Panhandle were closed in anticipation of slick roads and snow and sleet that could accumulate to depths as much as five inches, according to weather reports.
“I order the Adjutant General to activate the Florida National Guard, as needed, to deal with this emergency. I further order the Director of the Florida State Guard to activate the Florida State Guard, as needed, to respond to this emergency,” DeSantis’ executive order reads.
The order also allows state agencies and local governments to suspend regulations as needed to deal with emergencies that may arise, including the collection of tolls on highways.
The declaration also allows the state to quickly coordinate with federal agencies on emergency relief, and directs the Florida Housing Finance Corp. to distribute funds as needed to local governments for emergency housing needs.
Photo: An AI-generated image from Adobe Stock images.
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