Gov. Rick Scott, who said while campaigning for governor that he would require employers to use the federal E-Verify system to check immigration status, now acknowledges that requiring the agriculture industry to use it would put growers at a disadvantage.

Scott said this week while addressing a gathering of the state's largest citrus growers group, Florida Citrus Mutual, that he wouldn't support any effort to require use of the system in the upcoming legislative year. Lawmakers have considered requiring its use, but failed to pass legislation the last two years.

Despite jumping in the primary seeking the Republican nomination to challenge Democrat incumbent U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in November in recent weeks, former U.S. Rep. Dave Weldon garnered the support of a major conservative organization on Thursday -- while U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, the front-runner for the GOP nod, continues to build his organization.

In late 2011, prior to the start of this years legislative session, a number ofleaders from the states biggest business lobbying groups -- including the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Florida -- gathered in the Florida Capitol.

The assembly was to stand behind Gov. Rick Scotts call for reform of personal injury protection auto insurance.