House Democratic Leader Evan Jenne (D- Hollywood) and Appropriations Committee Democratic Ranking Member Representative Nicholas X. Duran issued the following statements on passing of the House budget today:
“Over $37 billion in federal funds certainly does make writing a budget easier. This intial House budget is just a rough draft, and this year that draft has some very rough edges. Many of my collegues and I have grave concerns about the priorities being ignored or underserved. It’s hard to justify so much money being put into reserves while so many Floridians are struggling. We should be spending more money on things like education funding, stemming the housing crisis, or helping those without access to medical insurance. Instead, we’re prioritizing a $200 million dollar vindictive punishment to a dozen school districts,” said Leader Jenne.
“No budget is perfect and this one certainly has some glaring imperfections like the funding cuts to public health systems and the vindictive funding cuts to school districts who moved to protect its student bodies. However, there is plenty of time, opportunity, and money that can help make the entire legislature proud to vote yes and support it. I remain hopeful we can get there,” added Representative Duran.
Following both the House and Senate passing their respective budgets, the two chambers enter the conference process where the two proposals are brought into alignment for a final vote.
