Floridians have the opportunity to vote this November on an amendment to the state Constitution that would increase the minimum wage to $10.00 per hour effective September 30, 2021. Each September 30 thereafter, the minimum wage would increase by $1.00 per hour until it reaches $15.00 per hour in 2026. From that point forward, the minimum wage shall be adjusted annually for inflation.

The podcast of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholics Across the Aisle: Commentary on Public Policy and Civic Life, brings a non-partisan, moral voice to public dialogue on key policy issues of the day and assists listeners to become educated and active participants in civic life.

The annual Florida Culture of Life Conference, formerly known as the state Respect Life Conference, keeps with Church teaching that all human life has dignity and is to be protected. This year's conference, hosted by the Diocese of Palm Beach, will be held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to the COVID pandemic, volunteers have largely been unable to visit the imprisoned since mid-March. As of August 12, the Florida Department of Corrections (DOC) reports 12,988 inmates have tested positive for COVID-19 and 70 inmates have died due to the coronavirus. 1,866 DOC staff members, including Secretary Mark Inch and Deputy Secretary Ricky Dixon, have also tested positive. We invite you to pray this COVID-19 prayer of solidarity for all of them.