A series of little-noted studies throws cold water on the widely advertised claim that Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs reduce the deadly abuse of controlled substances.

Researchers Ronald Simeone and Lynn Holland found that "the probability of pain-reliever abuse is actually higher in states that have PDMPs than in states that do not."

The Florida Legislature came a step closer to passing a renewable energy bill that rips apart all that the tea party stands for. The bill would forever assign renewable energy development and deployment solely to Floridas regulated electric monopolies under the guise of supporting a green future.

Anxious to hold onto Florida's 25th Congressional District, Republicans are quietly maneuvering for the seat held by Rep. David Rivera.

Rivera, who was elected last year, has been dogged by allegations concerning past financial dealings. A criminal investigation is reportedly under way by the state attorney's office.

In the event that Rivera is sidelined -- or even if he isn't -- several big-name Republicans are said to be interested in running in the GOP-leaning district that stretches from Miami-Dade to Collier County.