Overview

• Four people arrested for chalking the Pulse memorial crosswalk were released without charges pending review, after a judge found no probable cause in one case and probable cause in three others.
• FDOT has repeatedly repainted the Pulse crossing, stationed officers nearby, posted no-defacing signs, and listed a $1,562 cost to return the site to its standard markings.
• Gov. Ron DeSantis defended the arrests, asserting no First Amendment right to use state roads for messages, following July federal guidance and FDOT’s updated manual banning pavement art.
• Delray Beach argued to keep its rainbow intersection at an FDOT hearing, with both sides ordered to submit proposed final orders by week’s end as the agency warns cities of removals, bills, and possible funding consequences.
• Local data and independent research cited by opponents report fewer pedestrian crashes at decorated crossings, while state and federal officials emphasize uniformity and potential distraction.