Data: Taxpayers missing out on chance to file for free
By Elizabeth Renter, NerdWallet
Free File is a program that allows the majority of taxpayers to file their federal income tax returns for free through participating software companies. But the service remains woefully underused.
I-4 Express lanes in Central Florida to get more expensive based on when you use them
Do you enjoy using I-4 Express lanes to get where you’re going in Central Florida? Starting Monday, you could pay higher tolls when using them to travel through the region — but the cost will depend on when you go.
The Florida Department of Transportation said in a news release it will begin dynamic tolling on the 21 miles of express lanes along Interstate 4 through Orange and Seminole counties.
The concept is pretty basic: More traffic means higher tolls, less traffic means lower tolls.
FDOT said drivers should expect to pay the highest rates during the peak commuting hours of 6-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m. weekdays through downtown Orlando. However, prices on express lanes will fluctuate throughout the day based on traffic conditions. The cost will also vary, as it does now, depending on how far you’re going.
Electronic signs overhead will show destinations and current toll rates to reach them, the agency said. Drivers will never be charged more than the toll shown on the sign when passed. If the toll changes after they pass the sign, drivers will pay the lower amount.
The 45 companies on the MAGA anti-DEI hit list
By Jeff Green, Bloomberg News
For President Donald Trump’s operatives seeking corporate targets to investigate for “illegal DEI,” conservative activists have already done the legwork and drawn up a list.
People on the move
Real estate
Lawrence Bellido, Keller Williams Advantage, was appointed 2025 President of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Christopher Atwell, Empire Network Realty, was appointed 2025 President Elect of Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Deidre Graybill, Graybill Realty and Associates LLC, was appointed 2025 Treasurer of Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Hafid Boujidi, Province International LLC, was appointed 2025 First Vice President of Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Rose Kemp, Re/Max Town Centre, has been recognized as the 2025 Immediate Past President of Orlando Regional Realtor Association.
Jamie Telchin was appointed vice president of development at Hillpointe, Winter Park.
Submit professional appointments, management-level promotions and significant awards for individuals, along with photos as .jpg attachments, to peopleonmove@orlandosentinel.com.
New York sues vape distributors over Elf Bar and other fruit and candy e-cigarettes
By MATTHEW PERRONE
New York on Thursday sued some of the country’s biggest distributors of electronic cigarettes, accusing the companies of violating state laws that prohibit the sale of vaping flavors and designs that appeal to children.