#florida

Has anyone here who recently retired or forced into retirement from Verizon signed up for the Retiree COBRA Plan?

My severance package includes my current health coverage, but that coverage ends in September, so I’m trying to decide whether enrolling in the Retiree COBRA Plan is worth the cost.

I know I can call Verizon Benefits and get answers to my specific questions, but I’d really like to hear from real-world Verizon retirees who have actually gone through the process and can share their experience.

For those who enrolled:

What are you paying per month?
Which plan did you choose?
How has the coverage been compared with what you had while working?
Have you run into any unexpected costs, limitations, or issues?
Overall, do you feel the Retiree COBRA Plan is worth the cost?

I’d especially love to hear from Verizon retirees in Florida, but I’m interested in anyone’s experience. I’m trying to make an informed decision before my current coverage ends. Thanks!

is there any way to opt out of the tax withholding for the VSP? I understand the possibility of owing next April, but that’s not my current concern. I am in Florida, so no additional state withholding.

Clearwater city officials are preparing for significant service reductions and potential layoffs if a proposed property tax amendment passes. The city anticipates a substantial decrease in ad valorem revenue, impacting various departments. Proposed cuts include library branch closures, reduced police and fire services, and decreased park maintenance. These measures are being considered as contingency plans for fiscal years 2028 and 2029. The city aims to minimize impacts while maintaining essential public safety and core government functions.

Clearwater, Florida

https://www.tampabaybeacons.com/2026/08/17/clearwater-prepares-as-city-faces-major-layoffs-and-cuts-in-services-if-tax-amendment-passes/

Reputable sources upstairs say it going to happen, tipping off friends to be making plans to jump ship beforehand, huge they say

Postal Center International is closing its Weston headquarters and laying off 181 employees. The layoffs affect various departments including accounting, production, and human resources. This significant workforce reduction is attributed to unforeseeable business circumstances. The company was founded in 1984 and previously employed around 560 people. The layoffs began in August and may continue through September.

Broward County, Florida

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/state/florida/2026/08/14/broward-postal-center-international-layoffs/91300446007/

Florida's Martin County is bracing for significant financial challenges if a statewide property tax reform proposal passes. This reform, appearing as Amendment 3 on the November ballot, would substantially increase homestead exemptions. Such an increase would drastically reduce the property tax revenue available to the county. Consequently, officials are considering widespread layoffs, new fees, and reductions in essential county services. Public safety departments are also expected to be impacted by these potential cuts.

Martin County, Florida

https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/local/martin-county/2026/08/13/layoffs-fees-cuts-to-county-services-to-come-with-florida-tax-relief/87191957007/

Did anyone in the Florida market - quality department get affected ? (Sunshine) we are all anxiously waiting. We have our VP and senior quality manager jumping to our weekly teams meeting tomorrow to share some information. We don’t know if it has to do with restructuring etc. Does anyone know if HEDIS teams will be automated in the future by AI?

Monterey Mushrooms has seen significant workforce reductions since its acquisition by Paine Schwartz. Over 1,000 employees have been laid off across multiple facilities. These closures have impacted operations in Florida, Illinois, and California. The company cited various reasons including aging infrastructure and increased costs. Negotiations are ongoing regarding severance and benefits for affected workers.

https://pestakeholder.org/news/paine-schwartz-owned-monterey-mushrooms-layoffs-top-1000/

Brown & Brown is implementing an AI-first strategy across its 23,000 employees, aiming to enhance capabilities and drive growth rather than reduce headcount. The insurance brokerage views artificial intelligence as a tool to improve productivity and customer service, not as an expense-reduction measure. While employees' roles will evolve, the company emphasizes training and tailored solutions to ensure successful adoption. Leadership commitment is deemed crucial for integrating AI effectively into business operations. This AI push occurs as Brown & Brown continues its expansion through hiring and acquisitions.

Daytona Beach, Florida

https://sea.peoplemattersglobal.com/amp/news/ai-and-emerging-tech/ai-push-will-not-lead-to-major-layoffs-brown-and-brown-ceo-51214

The expiration of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals is creating significant labor challenges in Florida. Tens of thousands of workers in the travel, hospitality, and care sectors are losing their work authorization. This comes at a critical time for Florida's tourism economy, which relies heavily on this workforce. Businesses and community organizations are grappling with potential shortages and the impact on local economies. Fears of deportation are also rising among the affected Haitian community.

Miami, Florida

https://www.thetraveler.org/floridas-haitian-workers-face-layoffs-as-tps-protections-end/

The Palm Beach County School District has eliminated 76 media clerk positions, impacting library operations. This decision was made to address a significant budget deficit, largely due to reduced state funding. The district aims to save over $3.3 million through these layoffs. While the media clerk roles were removed, the 169 media specialist positions remain unaffected. Over half of the affected employees have been reassigned to other district roles, with others retiring or receiving assistance in finding new employment.

West Palm Beach, Florida

https://www.wlrn.org/news-in-brief/2026-07-27/palm-beach-county-school-district-fires-all-school-library-specialists

What is happening with the Sunshine Medicaid contracts in Florida? Are there potential layoffs, Any PLs know anything?

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHEN FLORIDA LAYOFFS WILL START AND WHAT THE TERM DATE MIGHT BE?

No email yet. Can't wait for them to send it. This is nerve wracking. Good luck to everyone that applied for the VSP. Good luck to those in Florida with the layoffs. Good luck to the ones staying. This is is going to be the longest day ever.

Cross Country Healthcare has been acquired by a subsidiary of private equity firm Knox Lane. The transaction will take the company private. Joel Tremblay has been appointed as the new CEO, succeeding co-founder Kevin Clark. This deal was finalized after shareholders approved the merger. The acquisition is valued at $437 million.

http://www.modernhealthcare.com/mergers-acquisitions/mh-healthcare-deals-live-updates/

The iconic Hard Rock Cafe in Miami is closing its doors after three decades of service. This closure will result in the loss of 117 jobs. The decision comes as the company winds down one of its services. This marks the end of an era for the popular establishment. The impact on local employment is significant.

Miami, Florida

https://www.miamiherald.com/miami-com/restaurants/article316233804.html

https://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/news/2026/07/17/logistics-company-temco-to-lay-off-60-employees.html

University of South Florida President Moez Limayem has initiated significant leadership changes. This marks his first major organizational overhaul since taking office this year. The article mentions layoffs and a shakeup at Cyber Florida, indicating a broader restructuring effort. These changes are part of Limayem's strategic vision for the university.

Tampa, Florida

https://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2026/07/20/usf-restructuring.html

A job fair was held in Orange County to assist former Spirit Airlines employees and other job seekers. The event was organized by CareerSource Central Florida and Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson. It was initially intended for displaced Spirit employees but was later opened to anyone seeking employment. The fair provided a platform for attendees to connect with potential employers and exchange resumes. This initiative aimed to help individuals regain stability after sudden job losses.

Orange County, Florida

https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2026/07/22/careersource-job-fair-connects-job-seekers-with-employers-after-spirit-layoffs/

A proposed Florida tax reform could lead to significant job losses for Martin County firefighters. Over one-third of the county's fire rescue personnel may face layoffs. Alternatively, the county could close three fire stations and eliminate specialized rescue teams. These potential cuts are slated for fiscal years 2028 and 2029. The Fire Rescue department warns of these severe consequences if the tax proposal is enacted.

Martin County, Florida

https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/local/martin-county/2026/07/21/florida-tax-plan-may-eliminate-116-firefighters-in-martin-county/90979852007/

Atlanta-based Parallel has eliminated 211 jobs following the closure of two Florida facilities. The affected employees were placed on paid administrative leave and received pay through their termination dates. These layoffs occurred in early July, impacting roles from cultivation to supervisory positions. The company did not disclose the specific reasons for the facility closures or if these cuts are part of a broader strategy. Parallel operates numerous dispensaries in Florida under the Surterra brand.

Lakeland and Wimauma, Florida

https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2026/jul/21/ca--abis-company-cut-211-hillsborough-and-lakeland-jobs/

A third-party logistics provider has laid off 168 employees following the termination of its contract with Publix Super Markets. The company, Freight Handlers, will cease unloading services at five Publix distribution centers in Florida. This action impacts warehouse handlers, leads, and management staff. Affected employees have been notified of their permanent separation. Publix directed inquiries to Freight Handlers for further comment.

Lakeland, Sarasota

https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2026/jul/21/layoffs-publix-facilities-lakeland-sarasota/

Over 1,100 Amazon employees in Florida will be laid off due to extensive warehouse renovations. The Port St. Lucie and Homestead fulfillment centers are closing for two-year renovation projects. Layoffs at these two facilities are scheduled to occur between July and December. A new Amazon distribution center in Fort Pierce is projected to create over 700 permanent jobs. These closures are part of a larger renovation and expansion effort by the company.

Port St. Lucie, Homestead, Fort Pierce, Florida

https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/2026/07/20/amazon-florida-warehouse-layoffs-port-st-lucie-homestead/90984474007/

Well. we miss Burdine's. They were the Florida store, and traveling there, from New York, we always knew the store (even as Federated) was somewhat unique...not like the old days, but a differentiating experiences. How are things now after seeing some of the doors re-adjust in numbers and went through the closures ? Anyone care to offer some thoughts ?

Howard Stern has secured a lucrative new contract, reportedly earning him approximately $8,000 per minute. This significant income comes amidst recent staff reductions on his show. Stern has decided to broadcast only one show per week moving forward. The layoffs affected about a dozen employees. A former assistant has also filed a lawsuit alleging a hostile work environment.

Miami Beach, Florida

https://uinterview.com/news/howard-stern-is-making-8000-per-minute-in-his-new-contract-as-he-announces-staff-layoffs/amp/

A law firm is investigating Amazon for a potential violation of the WARN Act concerning a recent mass layoff. The investigation focuses on whether Amazon provided the required 60 days' notice to 494 employees affected by the layoff. If notice was insufficient, affected employees may be entitled to back pay and benefits. The firm is seeking to speak with impacted individuals to discuss their rights. This action highlights the legal obligations employers have during significant workforce reductions.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

https://straussborrelli.com/2026/07/15/amazon-pbi3-warn-act-investigation/

Amazon is implementing significant layoffs across two Florida facilities as part of extensive renovation projects. Nearly 500 workers will be impacted at the Port St. Lucie fulfillment center, with layoffs beginning in September. This follows an earlier announcement of over 600 layoffs at the Homestead facility. Both locations are slated for two-year renovation plans, with a projected reopening in 2028. The company anticipates rehiring a larger workforce upon completion of these upgrades.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/state/2026/07/16/amazon-florida-warehouses-renovations-port-st-lucie-homestead-layoffs/90939879007/

A global wheel manufacturer will be closing its Jacksonville plant in August. This decision will result in the layoff of 62 employees. The company cited difficulties with labor recruitment and retention as a primary reason. High operating and maintenance expenses also contributed to the closure. The facility's closure is scheduled for August 30.

Jacksonville, Florida

https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/local/enkei-america-inc-jacskonville-facility-closing-layoffs/77-8e532662-1afc-4be6-8d64-d1902241cbb8

Cyber Florida has undergone a department restructuring, leading to layoffs. This organizational change follows a recent leadership transition within the institution. The Florida Center for Cybersecurity was established by the Florida Legislature in 2014. The exact number of affected employees is not specified in the provided text. The article indicates the organization is at an inflection point.

Tampa, Florida

https://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2026/07/09/layoffs-at-cyber-florida-point-to-restructuring.html

Boynton Beach's City Manager issued conflicting statements regarding potential job losses. He warned commissioners of mass layoffs if a property tax cut measure passes statewide. However, he later assured municipal workers that his administration would strive to protect their employment. The proposed tax changes could cost the city millions, impacting services like libraries and parks. To mitigate these losses, the city is exploring selling its fire and water departments to the county.

Boynton Beach, Florida

https://www.bocaratontribune.com/bocaratonnews/2026/07/boynton-city-manager-vows-job-protections-after-mass-layoffs-warning/

what is the base salary for these positions at Verizon?

I am looking to apply to these positions in Florida.

How much do they pay?

Long Term Boca Retiree here. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation released it market conduct investigations report in April 26. Truspire is going out with a literal bang !

Florida cited and fined both Mutual of America & Truspire over a collective $60,000 in fines for violating Florida law & insurance statues. These were over some BS LTC filing. But, MoA & Truspire received more fines (5) then any other insurance company. Not sure who in the legal area w/the states dropped the ball but this is very embarrasing. For more details go to:

FLOIR.gov

and read for yourselves.

Someone was asleep at the switch. time to dock his pay or ship his role to India.

Heard the Lake Mary, FL office will be hit hard with the upcoming 7/16 layoffs

W South Beach & Residences will end its Marriott affiliation. The property will close for renovations on August 20. This transition will result in 337 permanent employee terminations. The layoffs are effective August 19. Reuben Brothers acquired the hotel in 2024 and plans significant upgrades.

Miami Beach, Florida

https://www.hoteldive.com/news/w-south-beach-miami-closure-layoffs-renovation/823752/

Why does the FL attorney general’s investigation into Caremark mean for job security within the PBM?

Radio giant iHeartMedia is undergoing significant nationwide layoffs. Its cluster of 13 stations in Palm Beach County is anticipating local impacts. The company has not yet specified the number of affected employees. This move signals a major restructuring for the entertainment company. Further details regarding the changes are expected soon.

Palm Beach County, Florida

https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/entertainment/2026/06/26/iheartmedia-nationwide-layoffs-palm-beach/90694911007/

The School District of Palm Beach County is eliminating 76 positions. These affected roles are Media Clerk I and Media Clerk II. Employment for these individuals will conclude on July 31, 2026. Increased compensation costs and declining student enrollment caused these changes. The district aims to re-employ as many affected staff members as possible.

West Palm Beach, Florida

https://cbs12.com/news/local/76-palm-beach-county-school-district-employees-to-be-laid-off-by-end-of-july-florida-news

Spirit Airlines faces a class-action lawsuit from former employees. The suit alleges violations of the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. Workers claim they received no advance notice before layoffs. Spirit argues for exceptions based on unforeseeable events and its financial state. The airline is now winding down during its second bankruptcy.

https://news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/spirit-layoff-suit-puts-spotlight-on-labor-rights-in-bankruptcy

Hillsborough County commissioners discussed a proposed property tax reform amendment. The amendment could reduce county property tax revenue by $367 million annually. This loss may force staff layoffs, wage freezes, or increased fees. County services like parks and libraries could also face cuts. Florida voters will decide on the amendment in November.

Tampa, Florida

https://www.fox13news.com/news/hillsborough-county-commissioners-discuss-impacts-proposed-property-tax-reform-including-layoffs