New signs welcoming visitors to Florida now proclaim the state as a “free state.” On Tuesday, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) unveiled these signs, which greet drivers entering the Sunshine State and encourage them to “Hurry Back” upon departure. The updated signs will appear on all major roadways into and out of Florida. FDOT Secretary Jared Perdue announced the signs on social media, saying,“No better way to celebrate Independence Day Weekend than new state line signs welcoming Floridians and visitors to the Free State of Florida!” Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez also shared a photo of herself posing next to one of the signs. FDOT explained that the signs for northbound and westbound drivers are a nostalgic nod to the mid-20th century, reminiscent of the old Welcome Centers with large ‘Hurry Back’ lettering. The term “Free State of Florida” has been frequently used by Gov. Ron DeSantis and his administration. In his 2022 State of the State address, DeSantis described Florida as a free state, opposing “biomedical security state” and restrictive mandates. The following year, the term "Free State of Florida" was prominently featured in a statement announcing his Framework for Freedom budget, where his office stated, “The Free State of Florida serves as a framework for states across the nation to follow.” #Queer Up South Florida & Florida