FPD to Focus on Speeding and Distracted Driving for July
The Florence Police Department will take part in a focused speed enforcement campaign from July 6 through July 31 aimed at reducing speeding-related crashes and improving roadway safety. Officers will conduct increased patrols targeting speeding, aggressive driving, and other dangerous traffic violations. The effort is funded through a federal traffic safety grant administered by the Oregon Department of Transportation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in 29 percent of traffic fatalities nationwide in 2023. Florence Police are reminding drivers to obey posted speed limits, adjust speeds for conditions, leave extra travel time, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
Record Travel and Lower Prices for 4th
AAA says a record 72.2 million Americans, including nearly 877,000 Oregonians, are expected to travel over the Independence Day holiday. Despite the busy travel weekend, drivers are getting a break at the pump. The national average for regular gas has dropped to $3.85 a gallon, while Oregon’s average fell 15 cents this week to $4.68. Analysts say easing tensions in the Middle East have helped push crude oil prices lower. In Florence, gas prices are currently hovering around $4.65 a gallon.
Paid Leave Benefits
Paid Leave Oregon is reminding workers during Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month that they may qualify for paid family leave while caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. State officials say about 79,000 Oregonians age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, while 188,000 family caregivers provide an estimated 291 million hours of unpaid care each year. Eligible workers can take paid leave to assist family members with serious health conditions, including Alzheimer’s. Leave may be taken in full weeks or one day at a time. Applications are available through Frances Online.
