Joe Geller

Lawmakers wrapped up the legislative session without passing a bill that would create a statewide standard for ensuring that residential buildings are safe to live in. Some elected officials gathered in Surfside to push for one.

The proposal, among other things, would boost overall funding for public schools and includes a pay increase of 5.3% for state workers.

The 2015-2016 school year could begin as early as August 10. That means families could have to cut vacations short. State law prohibits schools from...