Consumer Safety & Courts: A federal judge allowed a class action to move forward against Kia over alleged engine defects in 137,000+ 2021-2023 Kia Soul and Seltos vehicles, with owners arguing the recall has crushed resale value and raised fire-risk concerns. Public Health: Florida health officials say “flesh-eating” Vibrio vulnificus is back in force as warm-season risk ramps up, with this year already outpacing last year’s case count across multiple counties. Hurricane Readiness: With the 2026 Atlantic season starting June 1, the NHC reports no active disturbances but urges Florida residents to prep early anyway, even if forecasts call for a below-normal season. Local Consumer Life: Gainesville’s Afternoon Restaurant earned a spot in Michelin’s first statewide Florida recommendations, adding to the state’s growing dining buzz. Energy Costs: Memorial Day travel comes as gas prices push higher, squeezing budgets and shifting spending toward cheaper outings. Policy Watch (Florida): Lawmakers approved a $114.5B budget and new tax rules, including updated sales tax holidays for back-to-school and hunting/fishing/camping items. Tech & Utilities: Florida’s data-center law aims to stop residential customers from subsidizing large power demands—an issue now sparking debate over who should pay as AI growth accelerates.