Capital Soup

Florida News Straight From the Source

You are here: Home / Archives for budget

budget

Senate Budget Prioritizes Education

Posted on

Unprecedented K-12 Per Student Funding, Key Investments in Higher Education

More than $3 Billion in Reserves, Historic Investments in Need and Merit-Based Financial Aid

The Florida Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Jack Latvala (R-Clearwater), today filed SPB 2500, a proposed budget for the 2017-18 fiscal year. The budget prioritizes funding for Florida’s Pre-K–20 public education system, while setting aside more than $3 billion in total reserves. The budget also makes critical investments in Florida’s state workforce with salary increases for state employees.
Statement from Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart):
“The Senate’s fiscally responsible, balanced budget ensures we both live within our means and set aside an ample rainy day fund. At the same time, the budget meets the needs of our growing state in a manner that reflects the priorities of the constituents who elected us.
“The link between education and our economy is clear. The best thing we can do to invest in Florida’s future is to make certain all Florida children have access to a great education from voluntary pre-kindergarten all the way through our excellent institutions of higher education.
“Over the last ten years, our universities have added approximately 50,000 students. During that time, state funding has grown by only $142 million, yet student tuition has nearly doubled. While it is true that Florida’s tuition rates are lower than in other states, nearly doubling the cost of tuition has pushed the hope of higher education out of reach for too many students and their families. In total, our budget increases need-based student aid by 81 percent, while merit-based aid is increased by 79 percent. With these historic investments in student financial aid, the Senate budget reflects our commitment to expand access to our State University System for all students who earn the right to attend.”
Statement from Senator Jack Latvala (R-Clearwater), Chair of the Senate Committee on Appropriations:
“For far too long, the honorable and dedicated state employees who guard prisons, protect our highways, care for abused and neglected children, and who provide many other critical government services, have gone without an increase in their pay. The Senate budget makes it clear that we value the contributions these public servants make to our state.”

Summary of SPB 2500, the 2017-2018 General Appropriations Act

 
Total Budget: $83.2 billion [$31.6 billion GR; $51.6 billion TF]
Major Statewide Issues
 
Education Capital Outlay
Total: $616.6 million [$599.8 million PECO TF; $16.8 million GR]

  • Public School Repairs and Maintenance – $75 million
  • Charter School Repairs and Maintenance – $75 million
  • Developmental Research Schools – $5.8 million
  • Public School Special Facilities – $50.8 million
  • Florida College System Repairs and Maintenance – $38.0 million
  • Florida College System Projects – $129.2 million
  • State University System Repairs and Maintenance – $45.6 million
  • State University System Projects – $176.0 million
  • School for the Deaf and Blind Repairs and Maintenance – $2.2 million
  • Public Broadcasting – Health and Safety Issues – $3.2 million
  • FSU Developmental Research School Arts & Sciences Building – $7.5 million
  • University Challenge Grants – $4.3 million
  • High Growth Public Schools – $3 million
  • Flagler College – $1.0 million

 
In addition: $45 million in authorization for SUS Capital Improvement Student Fee Projects
 
Compensation and Benefits:
 
Florida Retirement System – Total $96.9 million [$85.5 million GR; $11.4 million TF] (Normal Costs and Unfunded Actuarial Liability)

  • State Agencies – $15.4 million GR; $11.4 million TF
  • School Boards K-12 – $54.1 million GR
  • State Universities – $11.1 million GR
  • Community Colleges – $4.9 million GR

 
State Group Health Insurance – Total $36.5 million [$23.3 million GR; $13.2 million TF]
 
Pay Issues – Total $219.7 million [$147 million GR; $72.7 million TF]

  • State Employee Pay Increase – $103.9 million [$43.3 million GR; $60.7 million TF]
  • Correctional Officer Pay Increase – $57.9 million [$56.3 million GR; $1.5 million TF]
  • State Law Enforcement Pay Increase – $14.8 million [$4.9 million GR; $9.9 million TF]
  • Assistant Public Defender Pay Increase – $5.2 million [$4.5 million GR; $0.7 million TF]
  • Judicial Pay Increase $38 million GR
  • Pay Issues – Total $219.7 million [$147 million GR; $72.7 million TF]

 
State Employee Pay Increase – $103.9 million [$43.3 million GR; $60.7 million TF]

  • $1,400 increase for employees making $40,000 or less
  • $1,000 increase for employees making more than $40,000
  • Effective Date October 1, 2017

 
All Pay Issues below are in lieu of the overall State Employee Pay Increase (Except for the Veterans’ Affairs certified nurse assistant, pay issue)
 

  • Correctional Officer Pay Increase – $57.9 million [$56.3 million GR; $1.5 million TF]
    • Minimum Salary adjustment as follows
      • Correctional Officer $30,926 to $33,500
      • Correctional Officer Sergeant $32,783 to $36,850
      • Correctional Officer Lieutenant $35,061 to $40,535
      • Correctional Officer Captain $37,576 to $44,589
    • Minimum $2,500 increase for current employees in above classes.
      • Effective Date July 1, 2017

 

  • State Law Enforcement Pay Increase – $14.8 million [$4.9 million GR; $9.9 million TF]
    • 5% Pay Increase for Sworn Law Enforcement Officers
    • Effective Date July 1, 2017

 

  • Assistant Public Defender Pay Increase – $5.2 million [$4.5 million GR; $0.7 million TF]
    • 6% Pay Increase for Assistant Public Defenders with a minimum 3 years of experience in the Judicial Circuit they are currently employed.
    • Effective Date July 1, 2017

 

  • Judicial Pay Increase – $38 million GR
    • Supreme Court Justice: $162,200 to $192,945
    • DCA Judge: $154,140 to $183,298
    • Circuit Judge: $146,080 to $173,651
    • County Judge: $138,020 to $164,003

 

  • Special Pay Issues
    • Critical market pay for Statewide Guardian Ad Litem Office to address recruitment and retention issues
    • Critical market pay for certified nursing assistant employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (roughly $2,000 annual adjustment per employee)
    • Set minimum salary for law enforcement officers working for the Florida Highway Patrol at $36,222.
    • Authorized a $5,000 critical market pay adjustment for sworn law enforcement officers working for the Florida Highway Patrol residing in, and assigned to duties in, Pasco County.
    • Authorizes the Department of Corrections to grant a one-time $1,000 hiring bonus to correctional officers filling a position in a facility that had at least a ten percent vacancy rate in positions during the prior calendar quarter.
    • Authorizes the Department of Corrections to grant a ten percent pay additive for correctional officers attaining a correctional behavioral mental health certification and filling a post at a mental health facility.

 

  • Health Insurance Benefits
    • Six percent increase on overall premiums (state pays the full amount of the increase for employees)
    • Retain current prescription drug copayment tiers ($7 for generic; $30 for preferred brand name drugs; and $50 for nonpreferred brand name drugs)
    • Authorize dependent eligibility verification audit

 
PreK-12 Education
 
Summary
Total Appropriations: $14.8 billion [$11.6 billion GR; $3.2 billion TF]
Total Funding – Including Local Revenues: $24.3 billion [$14.8 billion state funds; $9.5 billion local funds]
 
Major Issues
Early Learning Services
Total: $1.1 billion [$571.8 million GR; $525.3 million TF]

  • Voluntary Prekindergarten Program – $411.8 million GR; including $1.6 million for 549 additional students and $15 million for a 3.8% increase in the Base Student Allocation [from $2,437 to $2,529 per student]
  • School Readiness Program – $596.3 million [$137.1 million GR; $459.2 million TF]

 
Public Schools/K12 FEFP
Total Funding: $21 billion [$11.5 billion state funds; $9.5 billion local funds]

  • FEFP Total Funds Increase is $790 million or 3.92%
  • FEFP Increase in Total Funds per Student is $209, a 2.91% increase [from $7,205 to $7,414]
  • Enrollment Workload Increase of $197 million state funds for additional 27,368 students
  • No Change in Required Local Effort (RLE) Millage of 4.638
  • Federally Connected Student Supplement – total $13 million
  • ESE Guaranteed Allocation – additional $22.8 million to maintain pre-recession funding level
  • Supplemental Academic Instruction – additional $40.3 million for workload and for the Extended Day Program for Intensive Reading for 300 Elementary Schools, including funding for improved schools and a summer school component
  • Student Transportation – $20.3 million increase for a total of $455.5 million
  • Instructional Materials – $13.3 million increase, including an additional $3 million for dual enrollment materials, for a total of $242 million
  • Elimination of Virtual Education Contribution – reduction of $14.6 million
  • Digital Classrooms – $20 million reduction for a total of $60 million

 
Public Schools/K12 Non-FEFP

  • Mentoring Programs – $17.3 million GR
  • Gardiner Scholarships – additional $34.1 million for total of $107.4 million GR
  • School District Matching Grants for school district foundations – $3.4 million increase for a total of $7.4 million GR
  • School and Instructional Enhancement Grants – $39.7 million GR
  • Exceptional Education Grants – $6.6 million [$4.3 million GR; $2.3 million TF]
  • Florida School for the Deaf & Blind – $51.6 million [$47 million GR; $4.6 million TF]

 
State Board of Education
Total: $238.5 million [$85.7 million GR; $152.7 million TF]

  • Assessment and Evaluation – $109.2 million [$52.9 million GR; $56.3 million TF]
  • Transfer of $2.7 million to State Board of Community Colleges [$2.5 million GR and $.2 million TF]

 
Higher Education
 
Summary
Total Appropriations: $5.9 billion [$4.6 billion GR; $1.3 billion TF]
Total Funding – Including Local Revenues: $8.9 billion [$5.9 billion state funds; $3.0 billion local]
 
Major Issues
District Workforce
Total: $525.4 million [$293.5 million GR; $188.6 million TF; $43.3 million tuition/fees]

  • Workforce Development – $366.9 million [$292 million GR, $74.9 million TF]
  • Perkins Career and Technical Education grants and Adult Education and Literacy funds – [$113.7 million TF]
  • No tuition increase

 
Florida College System
Total: $2.2 billion [$914.1 million GR; $231.8 million TF; $1 billion tuition/fees]

  • Developmental Education Reduction – ($55) million GR
  • Restoration of nonrecurring EETF base funds – $13.2 TF
  • FRS adjustment – $4.9 million GR
  • No tuition increase

 
State University System
Total: $5.1 billion [$2.9 billion GR; $262.8 million TF; $2.0 billion tuition/fees]

  • Performance Based Funding – $525 million
    • $250 million State Investment [GR]
    • $275 million Institutional Investment
      • Reprioritized from the base of each institution
  • World Class Faculty and Scholar Program – $75 million GR
  • State University Professional and Graduate Degree Excellence Program – $55 million GR
  • Additional Funds for Preeminent and Emerging Preeminent State Universities – $50 million GR
  • TEAM Grants – $55 million GR
  • No tuition increase

 
Private Colleges
Total: $168.1 million GR

  • Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) Grants (formerly FRAG) – Increases student award amount from $3,000 to $3,300.
  • ABLE Grant – Increases student award amount from $1,500 to $2,500.
  • Historically Black Colleges and Universities Funding Increase – $2.3 million

 
Student Financial Aid
Total: $716 million [$257.7 million GR, $458.3 million TF]

  • Bright Futures – Academic Scholars Award Increase and Textbook Stipend – $151.9 million TF
  • Bright Futures – Academic Scholars Summer Funding – $39.5 million TF
  • Florida Student Assistance Grants – Increase Need-Based Aid – $120.95 million GR
  • First Generation Matching Grant – Double State Match – $5.3 million GR
  • Florida Farmworker Scholarship Program – $500,000 GR
  • Benacquisto Scholarship Program – Workload and Expansion – $1.4 million GR
  • Children/Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans Workload Increase – $893,931 GR
  • Need-based educational benefits to pay living expenses during semester breaks for active duty and honorably discharged members of the Armed Forces – $1 million GR

 
Vocational Rehabilitation
Total: $218.6 million [$50.2 million GR, $168.4 million TF]

  • Adults with Disabilities funding – $6.4 million GR

 
Health and Human Services
 
Summary
Total Budget: $35,517.0 million [$9,555.9 million GR; $25,961.1 million TF]; 31,824.07 positions
 
Major Issues
Agency for Health Care Administration
Total: $27,679.4 million [$6,598.1 million GR; $21,081.3 million TF]; 1,546.5 positions

  • Low Income Pool – $607.8 million [$0.5 million GR; $607.3 million TF]
  • Nursing Home Prospective Payment Transition – $57.6 million [$5.0 million GR; $52.6 million TF]
  • Reduction of Hospital Rate Enhancements – ($258.6) million [($99.2) million GR; ($159.4) million TF]

 
Agency for Persons with Disabilities
Total: $1,333.5 million [$548.0 million GR; $785.5 million TF]; 2,711.50 positions

  • Service Provider Rate Increase to Address Federal Fair Labor Standards Act – $41.0 million [$15.7 million GR; $25.3 million TF]
  • Waiver Support Coordinator Rate Increase – $7.9 million [$3.0 million GR; $4.9 million TF]
  • Licensed Practical Nurse Rate Increase – $3.4 million [$1.3 million GR; $2.1 million TF]

 
Department of Children and Families
Total: $3,164.3 million [$1,726.5 million GR; $1,437.8 million TF]; 11,944.5 positions
 

  • State Mental Health Treatment Facilities Additional Staffing – 40.0 FTE; $2.9 million GR
  • State Mental Health Treatment Facilities OPS Restoration – $2.7 million GR
  • Community-Based Care Lead Agencies Funding Increase – $14.3 million [$11.3 million GR; $3.0 million TF]
  • Child Care Regulatory Compliance – 16.0 FTE; $1.6 million [$0.9 million GR; $0.7 million TF]
  • Maintenance Adoption Subsidies – $6.3 million [$2.8 million GR; $3.5 million TF]
  • Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment Federal Grant – $27.2 million TF
  • Additional Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Funding – $2.5 million GR

 
Department of Elder Affairs
Total: $313.5 million [$141.9 million GR; $173.6 million TF]; 439.5 positions

  • Alzheimer’s Respite Care – 249 slots – $3.0 million GR
  • Community Care for the Elderly (CCE) Program – 372 slots – $3.0 million GR
  • Home Care for the Elderly (HCE) Program – 274 slots – $1.0 million GR
  • Public Guardianship Services – 286 slots – $0.8 million GR
  • Specialized Alzheimer’s Day Care Center Rate Increase – $3.0 million GR

 
Department of Health
Total: $ 2,884.5 million [$531.1 million GR; $2,353.4 million TF]; 14,064.57 positions

  • Epidemiology, Surveillance, and Outbreak Control Workload – $1.9 million [$1.0 million GR; $0.9 million TF]
  • Child Protection Teams – $ 1.4 million GR
  • Poison Control Centers – $3.7 million GR
  • Office of Compassionate Use Workload – 9.0 FTE; $0.8 million TF

 
Department of Veterans Affairs
Total: $139.7 million [$10.3 million GR; $129.4 million TF]; 1,117.5 FTE

  • Complete Construction of 7th State Veterans’ Nursing Home – $38.7 million TF
  • Veterans’ Benefits and Assistance Workload – 10.0 FTE; $0.8 million GR

 
Civil and Criminal Justice
 
Summary
Total Budget: $5.069.1 billion [$4.133.5 billion GR; $935.6 million TF]; 45,809.50 FTE
 
Major Issues

  • Funding the Department of Corrections health services deficit – $18.0 million
  • Funding a new residential mental health facility – $16.4 million GR
  • Funding half of State Courts Technology Comprehensive Plan – $14.0 million; 45 FTE

 
Attorney General/ Legal Affairs
Total: $328.1 million [$55.2 million GR; $272.9 million TF]; 1,411.50 FTE
 

  • Criminal appeals workload – 10 FTE and $0.8 million GR
  • Information Technology workload – 3 FTE and $0.1 million GR; $0.2 million TF
  • Information Technology infrastructure improvements – $0.5 million GR; $0.1 million TF
  • Increase in the Federal Victims Assistance and Compensation (VOCA) Grants – $17.6 million TF
  • Statewide prosecution case management system – $0.8 million TF
  • Leased office space cost increase – $0.3 million GR; $0.2 million TF
  • Increased cost of statewide prosecution – $0.3 million TF

 
Department of Corrections
Total: $2.43 billion [$2.36 billion GR; $74.1 million TF]; 24,238.00 FTE

  • Funding the Department of Corrections health services deficit – $18.0 million GR
  • New residential mental health facility – $16.4 million GR
  • Motor vehicles – $0.3 million GR
  • Enhance education and training program – $1.5 million GR
  • Fixed capital outlay for repair and maintenance of DOC facilities – $6.4 million GR

 
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
Total: $291.8 million [$107.5 million GR; $184.3 million TF]; 1,844.00 FTE

  • Fixed capital outlay for new Pensacola Regional Operations Center – $1.0 million TF
  • Sexual assault kit backlog reduction plan – 5 FTE and $0.8 million GR
  • Improve sexual offender and predator registry – $1.9 million TF
  • Increase trust fund authority for law enforcement training – $2.2 million TF
  • Increase sexual assault kit grants – $0.4 million TF
  • Enhance missing children response and investigations – 9 FTE and $0.7 million TF
  • Unsolved case website – $0.2 million GR
  • Funds final year of Computerized Criminal History (CCH) database – $5.0 million TF

 
Department of Juvenile Justice
Total: $576.3 million [$417.5 million GR; $158.8 million TF]; 3,269.50 FTE

  • PACE Centers for Girls – $3.6 million GR
  • Funds state share of juvenile detention cost share – $2.5 million GR
  • Increases the number of juvenile residential commitment beds – $5.2 million GR
  • Funds enhanced evidence-based services for residential programs – $5.3 million TF
  • Funds the SNAP Program for young children -$1.1 million TF
  • Fixed capital outlay for repair and maintenance of department-owned facilities – $6.5 million GR

 
State Court System
Total: $528.0 million [$436.6 million GR; $91.4 million TF]; 4,408.50 FTE

  • Funding half of State Courts Technology Comprehensive Plan – $14.0 million; 45 FTE
  • Case management resources – $1.40 million; 20 FTE
  • Address additional 3rd DCA courthouse costs – $0.1 million GR
  • Naltrexone injections to treat opioid- and alcohol-addicted offenders – $2.5 million GR
  • Veterans’ Courts – $0.8 million GR

 
Justice Administration
Total: $902.8 million [$748.6 million GR; $154.3 million TF]; 10,506.00 FTE

  • Increased due process funding for death penalty cases – $1.3 million GR
  • State attorney workload – $0.4 million in GR, $0.4 million in TF

 
Clerks of the Court

  • Address clerk revenue deficits – $25.0 million nonrecurring GR for CFY 2016-17 and a conforming bill that redirects $25.0 million in recurring GR to the clerks.

 
Transportation, Tourism and Economic Development
 
Summary
Total Budget: $13.4 billion [$434.8 million GR; $13.0 billion TF]; 13,275.5 positions
 
Major Issues

  • Transportation Work Program – $9.9 billion TF
  • Affordable Housing Programs – $274.4 million TF
  • Economic Development Incentive Programs, Projects and Initiatives – $83.4 million TF
  • Economic Development Partners – $135.8 million TF
  • Library Grants and Initiatives – $39.4 million GR
  • Cultural and Museum Grants and Initiatives – $24.2 million (TF & GR)
  • Historic Preservation Grants and Initiatives – $11.8 million (TF & GR)
  • Motorist Modernization Project and Enterprise Data Infrastructure – $17.5 million TF
  • National Guard Tuition Assistance – $4.5 million GR

 
Department of Economic Opportunity
Total: $1.4 billion [$300.8 million GR; $1.1 billion TF]; 1,538.5 positions
 

  • Economic Development Incentive Programs, Projects and Initiatives – $83.4 million TF includes:
    • Economic Development Toolkit Payments and Initiatives – $83.4 million TF
    • Payments for existing contracts-$38.4 million
    • Quick Action Closing Fund-$45.0 million

 

  • Economic Development Partners – $129.2 million TF includes:
    • Enterprise Florida (EFI) – $23.5 million TF
    • VISIT Florida – $76 million TF
    • Florida Sports Foundation – $4.7 million TF
    • Space Florida – $19.5 million TF [$12.5 million recurring; $7 million nonrecurring]
    • Institute for the Commercialization of Public Research –$5.5 million TF [$1 million recurring; $4.5 million nonrecurring]

 

  • Workforce Development Programs, Projects, and Initiatives – $22.4 million TF includes:
    • Quick Response Training Program – $16.0 million TF
    • Workforce Development Projects and Initiatives – $7.6 TF

 

  • Affordable Housing Programs – $274.4 million TF:
    • SHIP – $130.9 million TF (allocated to local governments), includes:
      • More flexibility in the SHIP program regarding rent subsidies and rental assistance
      • $5.2 million allocated for homeless Challenge Grants
    • State Housing Programs – $143.5 million TF includes:
      • At least 50 percent for the SAIL Program
      • $10 million for competitive grant program for housing developments designed for persons with developmental disabilities
      • $20 million for workforce housing to serve low-income persons and certain households in the Florida Keys
    • Housing and Community Development Programs, Projects, and Initiatives – $26.1 million TF includes:
      • Housing and Community Development Projects and Initiatives – $23.8 million TF
      • Technical and Planning Assistance and Competitive Florida Partnership Program – $1.3 million TF
      • Building Homes for Heroes-$1 million TF

 
Department of State
Total: $141.0 million [$104.5 million GR; $36.5 TF]; 412 positions

  • State Aid to Libraries – $25.2 million GR
  • Libraries – $15.5 million GR o Library Construction Grant Ranked List – $5.3 million GR
  • Library Technology Grants – $8.2 million GR
  • Library Cooperatives – $2 million recurring
  • Cultural & Museum Program Support and Facilities Grants – $29.1 million [$27.6 million GR; $1.5 million TF]
  • Historic Small Matching and Facilities Grants – $11.7 million GR
  • County Elections Assistance – $1.2 million GR

 
Department of Transportation
Total: $10.9 billion TF; 6,299 positions
 
Transportation Work Program – $9.9 billion TF:

  • Highway and Bridge Construction – $4.2 billion
  • Resurfacing and Maintenance – $1.2 billion
  • Design and Engineering – $1.2 billion
  • Right of Way Land Acquisition – $733.3 million
  • Public Transit Development Grants – $639.7 million
  • Rail Development Grants – $237.7 million
  • County Transportation Programs:
    • Small County Road Assistance Program (SCRAP) – $30.0 million
    • Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) – $64.3 million (includes $9 million for Small Cities)
    • Other County Transportation Programs – $55.6 million
  • Aviation Development Grants – $257.1 million
  • Seaport and Intermodal Development Grants – $188.0 million
  • Economic Development Transportation (“Road Fund”) Projects – $24.1 million TF
  • Shared-Use Non-Motorized Trail Network – $25 million
  • Transportation Disadvantaged Program Grants – $54.1 million

 
Department of Military Affairs
Total: $86.3 million [$29.5 million GR; $56.9 million TF; 453 positions]

  • Armories – $6.0 million GR
  • Community Outreach Programs (Forward March and About Face) – $2 million recurring GR
  • Secure and Harden State Readiness Centers – $2.0 million GR
  • Tuition Assistance for Florida National Guard – $4.2 million GR

 
Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Total: $476.8 million TF; 4,414 positions

  • Florida Highway Patrol:
    • Replacement Of In-Car Digital Video Cameras- $3.6 million TF
  • Motorist Modernization Project – Phase I and II – $14.0 million TF
  • Enterprise Data Infrastructure – $3.5 million TF
  • Maintenance and Repairs of Facilities – $3.0 million TF

 
Division of Emergency Management
Total: $395.3 million TF; 157 positions

  • Federally Declared Disaster Funding, excluding state match – $310.5 million:
    • Communities – $293.3 million
    • State Operations – $17.2 million
  • Statewide Notification and Alert System – $3.5 million TF
  • Residential Construction Mitigation – $4.0 million TF

 
The Environment and Natural Resources
 
Summary
Total Budget: $3.8 billion ($506.3 million GR; $693.5 million LATF; $2.6 billion Other TF); 8,671 positions
 
Major Issues
Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Total: $1.7 billion ($208.6 million GR; $23.1 million LATF; $1.5 billion TF); 3,614 positions

  • Wildfire Suppression Equipment $3 million TF
  • Florida Forest Service Grants for Endangered Species $1.2 million TF
  • Citrus Greening Research $8 million TF
  • Farm Share and Food Banks $2.2 million GR
  • Agricultural Best Management Practices Partnership Agreements $1.4 million TF
  • Agriculture Education and Promotion Facilities $4.6 million TF
  • Citrus Health Response Program $7.1 million TF
  • Kissimmee Animal Diagnostic Lab $4.1 million GR
  • State Farmers Markets Facility Improvements $1 million TF
  • Critical Building Repairs and Maintenance $2 million GR
  • African Snail Eradication Program $2.3 million TF
  • Child Nutrition Program Grants $99.2 million TF

 
Department of Citrus
Total: $33.1 million ($33.1 million TF); 39 positions

  • Advertising/Promotion $2.7 million TF

 
Department of Environmental Protection
Total: $1.7 billion ($213.1 million GR; $609.2 million LATF; $862.4 million TF); 2,899.5 positions

  • Everglades Restoration $144.0 million ($32.0 million LATF; $112.0 million TF)
  • Northern Everglades Restoration $34.0 million ($28.2 million LATF; $5.8 million GR)
  • St. John River/Keystone Heights Restoration, Public Access & Recreation $20 million LATF
  • Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern $25 million LATF
  • Hurricane Recovery Beach Projects $50.0 million GR
  • Beach Management Funding Assistance $50 million LATF
  • Springs Restoration $50 million LATF (base funding)
  • Indian River Lagoon Septic to Sewer Assistance Grants $20 million GR
  • Water Projects $67.3 million GR
  • Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) $5.4 million GR
  • State Parks Maintenance and Repairs $22.9 million TF
  • Petroleum Tanks Cleanup Program $110 million TF
  • Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) $7.4 million GR
  • Drinking Water & Wastewater Revolving Loan Programs $18.4 million GR; $226.9 million TF
  • Hazardous Waste/Site Cleanup $8.5 million TF
  • Small County Solid Waste Management Grants $3.0 million TF
  • Small County Wastewater Treatment Grants $15 million ($13 million TF; $2 million GR)
  • Lake Apopka $5 million LATF
  • Local Parks $3.2 million GR
  • Water Management Districts’ Minimum Flows and Levels Support $1.9 million GR

 
Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
Total: $372.7 million ($81.2 million GR; $61.2 million LATF; $230.2 million TF); 2,118.5 positions

  • Apollo Marine Fish Hatchery $3.5 million ($1.75 million GR; $1.75 million TF)
  • Boating Infrastructure and Improvement Program $5.7 million TF
  • Artificial Fishing Reef Construction $.6 million ($.3m GR & other TF)
  • Derelict Vessel Removal $1.5 million GR
  • Black Bear Conflict Reduction $.5 million GR
  • Building Improvements $.6 million TF

 
General Government
 
Summary
Total Budget: $2 billion [$299.3 million GR; $1.7 billion Other TFs]; 11,350 positions
 
Major Issues
Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Total: $152.3 million [$1.9 million GR; $150.3 million TF]; 1,618 positions

  • Promoting Florida’s Hospitality Program – $1 million TF
  • Legal Costs-Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco – $.4 million GR

 
Department of Financial Services
Total: $386.7 million [$28.2 million GR; $358.5 million TF]; 2,617.50 positions

  • Florida Planning, Accounting & Ledger Management (PALM) Project – $41.9 million TF
  • Florida Accounting & Information Resource (FLAIR) Staff Augmentation – $.6 million TF
  • Fire College and Arson Lab Repairs and Maintenance – $.4 million TF
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fraud – $.2 million TF; 3 positions
  • Fire College Building Maintenance – $.4 million TF
  • Local Government Fire Services – $5.8 million GR
  • Increase Contracted Services Budget Authority – $1.6 million TF
  • Increase State Fire Marshall Grant Programs – $.9 million TF
  • K-12 Public School Funding Transparency Website – $.5 million GR

 
Department of the Lottery
Total: $167.9 million TF; 420 positions

  • Statewide Document Management System – $.8 million TF
  • Information Technology upgrades to software, hardware, and equipment – $.3 million TF

 
Department of Management Services
Total Budget: $619.8 million [$56.5 million GR; $563.3 million TF]; 833 positions

  • Florida Facilities Pool – $36.9 million [$25.2 million GR; $11.7 million TF]
  • FDLE Pensacola Regional Operations Center – $28.2 million [$26.5 million TF; $1.7 million GR]
  • Dependent Eligibility Verification Services – $1 million TF
  • Florida Interoperability Network and Mutual Aid – $2 million GR
  • Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System (SLERS) Staff Augmentation, Equipment and Independent Verification and Validation Services – $1.6 million TF
  • Division of Retirement Information Technology Contract – $2.1 million TF
  • Fleet Management Information System – $.5 million TF • Seminole County Computer Aided Dispatch System – $2 million GR

 
Division of Administrative Hearings
Total Budget: $26.1 million TF; 241 positions
 
Agency for State Technology
Total: $67.8 million TF; 227 positions

  • Infrastructure Replacement and License Consolidation – $.3 million TF
  • Security Training – $.2 million TF

 
Public Service Commission
Total: $25 million TF; 273 positions

  • Replacement of Motor Vehicles – $.1 million TF

 
Department of Revenue
Total: $577.6 million [$212.7 million GR; $365 million TF]; 5,121 positions

  • Fiscally Constrained Counties – $26.2 million GR
  • Aerial Photography – $.2 million GR

 

Gov. Scott Highlights Transportation Investments in the "Fighting for Florida’s Future" Budget

Posted on

02-08-17_Miami_ Transportation Event_1

Governor Rick Scott visited PortMiami today to highlight transportation investments in his 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget, which invests $10 billion for the Florida Department of Transportation’s Work Program, including $178 million for seaport infrastructure improvements. According to a recent report from the Florida Ports Council, Florida’s 15 seaports are responsible for $117.6 billion in economic activity, supporting nearly 900,000 jobs, $40 billion in personal income and $4.3 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Port Miami Director Juan Kuryla said, “Thanks to the support of Governor Scott, PortMiami now offers the deepest channel in the Southeast U.S. and the largest super-post-Panamax cranes in the state. PortMiami is big ship ready and we are honored that the world’s largest container alliances call here, which even further solidifies our position as the World Class Global Gateway. Governor Scott truly understands the importance of investing in Florida’s ports and making Florida a global trade leader, and we are proud to fully support his budget recommendations.”

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez said, “Governor Scott and I share a commitment to creating opportunities for generations of Miamians and Floridians, and we have both prioritized job creation and economic growth in our respective budgets and plans for this year. As our County’s second-largest economic engine and one of the State’s largest, PortMiami supports more than 207,000 jobs in our community and generates more than $27 billion in economic impact each year. I thank the Governor for continuing to invest in PortMiami’s growth for this generation and future generations, and look forward to working together to boost our Port’s regional and national impact in terms of jobs, economic development and tourism.” 

Florida Ports Council President and CEO Doug Wheeler said, “Governor Scott continues to make Florida’s seaports a priority by investing in the necessary improvements to keep up with current needs and prepare for future growth in cargo and cruise passengers.”

Gov. Rick Scott to Highlight Transportation Investments in the "Fighting for Florida’s Future" Budget

Posted on

Tomorrow, February 8th, Governor Rick Scott will highlight transportation investments in his 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget.
WHAT: Press Conference
WHEN: 8:30 AM
WHERE: PortMiami
Front of the PortMiami Administration Building
1015 N. America Way
Miami, FL 33132

Gov. Scott highlights transportation investments in the "Fighting for Florida’s Future" budget

Posted on

02-06-17_Jacksonville_Transportation Event_2

Governor Rick Scott visited Port Canaveral and JAXPORT to highlight transportation investments in his 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget, which invests $10 billion for the Florida Department of Transportation’s Work Program, including $178 million for seaport infrastructure improvements. According to a recent report from the Florida Ports Council, Florida’s 15 seaports are responsible for $117.6 billion in economic activity, supporting nearly 900,000 jobs, $40 billion in personal income and $4.3 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Tom Weinberg, Chairman of the Canaveral Port Authority, said, “Port Canaveral is a major economic engine for the state, and we have great plans to continue growing and supporting our local community. It is clear Governor Scott knows that by strategically investing in our seaports, we are investing in new opportunities for our state’s businesses, families and visitors. I applaud the Governor’s commitment to investing in our ports and look forward to working with the Legislature to support this funding.” 

Captain John W. Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral, said, “As the gateway to Central Florida and the second busiest cruise port in the entire world, Port Canaveral is proud of the incredible impact we have on the State of Florida. We are not only responsible for employing thousands of Floridians, but also help welcome millions of visitors to our great state each year. Governor Scott’s proposed investments in our port system is crucial to continuing this success and we look forward to seeing this funding passed during the upcoming Legislative session.” 

Jim Citrano, Chairman of JAXPORT, said, “Since 2008, job creation supported by JAXPORT has grown tremendously and today, we are proud to support more than 130,000 jobs throughout northeast Florida. This incredible growth would not have been possible without the Governor’s commitment to making investments in our port and the area’s transportation system. We are so grateful to the Governor for once again seeking to make important investments in our ports through his ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ budget and hope to see this plan fully passed.”   

Florida Ports Council President and CEO Doug Wheeler said, “Governor Scott continues to make Florida’s seaports a priority by investing in the necessary improvements to keep up with current needs and prepare for future growth in cargo and cruise passengers.”

Gov. Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget fights to support at-risk youth and families

Posted on

Governor Rick Scott today announced his “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget, which invests an additional $16 million into Florida’s juvenile justice system for a total of $571 million. This funding will support the continuation of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice’s (DJJ) reform efforts and its core mission of reducing juvenile delinquency, increasing public safety, and providing the services at-risk youth and their families need in the coming years to transition youth back into their communities and guide them towards successful adulthood.

Governor Scott said, “Florida has taken tremendous steps forward in reducing juvenile delinquency with juvenile arrests dropping to the lowest levels in more than forty years. We will continue to invest in effective programs and services that will not only help vulnerable youth in our state get the opportunities they need to succeed, but also ensure that Florida remains a safe state for families and visitors to enjoy for years to come.”

“Governor Scott’s ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget demonstrates Florida’s commitment to not only having the most comprehensive juvenile justice system in the country but to also having the best system as well” said DJJ Secretary Christina Daly. “By investing in the entirety of our system, from prevention all the way to aftercare, Governor Scott’s recommendations will solidify for now and the future both the strength and quality of the services provided to Florida’s children and their families.”

Highlights from Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget include:

$10.5 million to increase evidence-based interventions and services in residential commitment contracts as well as ensure capacity for youth adjudicated to non-secure and secure residential commitment programs. 

$2.6 million to add workforce education and job placement services at existing day treatment and residential programs. This funding will provide workforce education and job placement for 500 youth in various programs in order to help them find employment, which makes them less likely to reoffend.

$4.7 million to expand evidence-based prevention programs. Effective prevention programs have been a critical component in reducing Florida’s juvenile arrest rate. This funding will increase public safety by providing prevention programming to additional youth. 

$10 million to provide the necessary repairs and maintenance of detention, probation, and residential facilities. This funding will support security improvement and life safety projects, electrical upgrades, and ensure proper compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

What they are saying…

Stacy Gromatski, President and CEO of the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, said, “The Florida Network would like to thank Governor Scott for continuing to recognize the importance of investing in prevention services in our state. Having the ability to reach younger children, before they come into contact with the juvenile justice system, ensures not only a brighter future for them but strong families and communities overall.”

Mary Marx, President and CEO of the Pace Center for Girls, said, “On behalf of vulnerable girls in our state, we appreciate Governor Scott’s investment in prevention services in Florida. Under his leadership, more girls and young woman have access to education, counseling, and trauma informed services so that they can reach their full potential and successfully transition to adulthood.” 

Cathy Craig-Myers, Executive Director of the Florida Juvenile Justice Association, said, “Governor Scott has been steadfast in his commitment to our state’s juvenile justice reform work and the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget is a reflection of that unwavering commitment. From the implementation of DJJ’s Roadmap to System Excellence several years ago to today, Florida has and will continue in the future to serve as a model juvenile justice system for the rest of the country.”

To view the complete list of Governor Scott’s budget recommendations, visit www.fightingforfloridasfuturebudget.com.

Gov. Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests in programs that add jobs for Florida families

Posted on

Governor Rick Scott announced his 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget recommendations today, which include $1.2 billion for the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity to invest in economic development programs that add jobs. The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget also includes an $85 million investment in economic incentives to help Florida outcompete other locations for new economic opportunities and job wins, and $76 million for VISIT FLORIDA to continue Florida’s record tourism by marketing the state across the globe.

Governor Scott said, “While Florida has made great strides over the past six years, we are competing every day with other states and nations to attract growing businesses that will invest in our families and communities. Job creation helps the poorest, most disadvantaged families find the opportunities they need, and we must do all we can to secure a bright future for Florida by diversifying the economy and supporting business growth. By making these critical investments today, we are ensuring Florida remains the best place for our children and grandchildren to succeed.”

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget will help Florida continue to be a national leader in economic development and job growth. Our investments in tax cuts, critical infrastructure and strong communities have helped cultivate an environment that fosters innovation and job creation all across the state. This budget will ensure we can continue these important investments on our mission to make Florida the best place in the nation to live, work, visit, do business and raise a family.”

The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes:

$85 million for the Economic Development Toolkit to Make Florida More Competitive for Jobs

The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget invests $85 million in Florida’s economic development toolkit, including business incentives, which will help attract new businesses and job creation to the state. A strong economic development toolkit that includes incentives will help Florida outcompete other states for job wins that result in a strong positive impact in communities across the state.

The budget also includes $23.5 million for Enterprise Florida operations.

Chris Hart, President and CEO of Enterprise Florida, said, “The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget will ensure Florida can remain competitive in our efforts to win new jobs and investments all across the state. This budget has the tools we need to grow jobs and create new opportunities for hardworking Floridians and their families.”

$76 million for VISIT FLORIDA to Promote Florida as the #1 Tourist Destination

The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget invests $76 million for VISIT Florida to market the state around the globe, resulting in record numbers of visitors and an incredible economic impact to the Sunshine State. For every dollar invested in VISIT FLORIDA, taxpayers saw a return of $3.20, and VISIT FLORIDA received more than $133 million in private matching funds.

Ken Lawson, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said, “Through the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ budget allocation, VISIT FLORIDA and our local tourism marketing partners will continue to promote the state’s diverse destinations to visitors all across the globe, creating jobs and generating vital state and local tax revenue that benefit all Floridians. On behalf of the statewide tourism industry, I would like to thank the Governor for his strong leadership and his recognition of VISIT FLORIDA’s ability to deliver a significant return on the state’s investment in tourism marketing. With a renewed focus on transparency and accountability, VISIT FLORIDA is committed to realizing our vision of establishing Florida as the No. 1 travel destination in the world.”

$23 million to Train Florida’s Workforce to be the Top Workforce in the Country

This funding includes $20 million for Quick Response Training and $3 million for the Incumbent Worker Training Program to provide customized training and upgrade the skills in the state’s workforce to keep Florida businesses competitive.

Britt Sikes, Chairman of the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors and General Manager, Enterprise Accounts Division, DEX Imaging, said, “Florida has one of the world’s most talented and trained workforces, which helps our state grow existing businesses and attract emerging and evolving businesses. To continue meeting the needs of top employers in high-skill industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defense, engineering, information technology and cybersecurity, it is critical that we invest in developing Florida talent.”

$19.5 million for Space Florida to Keep Florida First in Space

This funding will help diversify our economy by attracting high-skill, high-wage jobs and ensure Florida remains at the forefront of the globe’s aerospace launch and manufacturing industries.

Frank DiBello, President of Space Florida, said, “Space Florida is committed to investing in the state’s strong aerospace industry and ensuring the continuing growth of this unmatched high-value industry. The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget shows our commitment to economic diversification and the development of a skilled workforce that can meet the needs of Florida’s aerospace companies.”

$1.8 million for Community Development and the Competitive Florida Partnership

This funding provides disadvantaged and rural communities with the support and resources needed to diversify their local economies and encourage new business investment.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING…

Syd Kitson, Chairman of the Florida Chamber Board of Directors and CEO of Kitson and Partners, said, “Governor Scott’s ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget shows a commitment to diversifying Florida to ensure we have the nation’s strongest economy. This budget will help Florida businesses continue to grow jobs and develop the next generation of the state’s workforce.”

Tom Feeney, President and CEO of the Associated Industries of Florida, said, “Florida businesses depend on the state’s talented workforce and critical infrastructure to grow and continue investing in our state’s communities. The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget has the right investments that will help us put more Florida families on the path to prosperity through a new job.”

Bill Herrle, Executive Director of the National Federation of Independent Business/Florida (NFIB), said, “Small businesses across Florida will benefit from the smart investments in the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget. The Governor’s commitment to cutting taxes and bureaucratic red tape has helped create a strong business climate in Florida that helps our small businesses create jobs.”

Randy Miller, President and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, said, “Gov. Scott’s strong budget recommendations will help Florida’s retail businesses and consumers across our state prosper. Our state’s more than 270,000 retailers are excited about the investments in the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget that will position Florida for sustained growth.”

About DEO
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce and community development efforts. This new approach helps expedite economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.floridajobs.org.

Governor Scott's "Fighting for Florida's Future" budget fights to transform state government technology

Posted on

The Agency for State Technology (AST) today highlighted Governor Rick Scott’s proposed 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget which recommends $75.9 million to help transform state government technology. The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget provides additional resources to address customer agency growth and enhance information technology (IT) security and remediation.

Governor Scott said, “The Agency for State Technology is working to transform state government technology and ensure we are using the safest, most efficient resource to serve Floridians across the state. As AST launches its third year as our state’s information technology resource, these investments will ensure they can continue on their goal to becoming a national leader in government technology.”

Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes:

  • $3.5 million to meet the needs of customer agencies;
  • $6.6 million to enhance information technology security and remediation; and
  • $2.2 million in consolidation savings

“Governor Scott’s commitment to leveraging technology to provide the best and most valuable services for its customers is reflected in this budget. We applaud the Governor for his focus on technology and making sure our agency has the resources we need to effectively and efficiently serve the many agencies and Floridians we are dedicated to assisting,” said AST Executive Director/State Chief Information Officer Jason Allison.

For additional details on the Governor’s budget, visit www.fightingforfloridasfuturebudget.com.

For more information on the Agency for State Technology, visit www.ast.myflorida.com.

Gov. Scott's "Fighting for Florida's Future" budget fights to protect Florida's environment for future generations

Posted on

Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget recommends $3.9 billion to protect and enhance Florida’s environment. The Governor’s investments will provide a direct benefit to Florida’s environment by improving water quality, enhancing water supplies, protecting the state’s natural lands and waterways, and restoring beaches. The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget recommends continuing Florida’s significant investments in Everglades restoration, springs protection projects, and Florida’s award-winning state park system.

Governor Scott said, “Florida is proud to be home to the nation’s most beautiful natural resources, from our freshwater springs and sandy white beaches to the iconic Everglades. Our environment is important to our families, our economy and our way of life, and I am committed to ensuring our natural and water resources remain protected long into the future. Last year, I signed the Legacy Florida bill to ensure our children and grandchildren will continue to enjoy these valuable resources, and I’m proud to continue to build on our commitment to protecting Florida’s environment by investing nearly $4 billion through the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget.”

Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes:

  • $225 million for Everglades restoration – Last year, Governor Scott signed the Legacy Florida bill, ensuring a dedicated source of funding for Everglades restoration and springs protection projects. His “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget goes over-and-above that commitment by recommending $225 million to benefit the iconic Everglades ecosystem. This includes significant investments in key restoration projects, including: $32 million in recurring state funding that is part of the Governor’s $880 million Everglades water quality plan; $140 million for the completion of state’s portion of the C-44 reservoir, and the continued investment in the C-43 reservoir, which will together provide 75 billion gallons of water storage east and west of Lake Okeechobee once complete; and $53 million for other Everglades restoration projects.
  • $111 million for beach restoration and renourishment – This is the highest amount of funding for Florida’s beaches since Governor Scott took office. Recognizing the importance of well-nourished and maintained beaches for the environment, economy and way of life, Governor Scott is recommending funding to protect, preserve and restore Florida’s world-renowned beaches and dune systems. This includes $61 million to help communities recover from damages impacting their beaches during this past hurricane season. This is in addition to the $15.8 million in state funds for emergency beach restoration projects Governor Scott announced last week. Governor Scott is also proposing $50 million to fully fund Beach Restoration and Nourishment Project requests submitted to DEP’s Beach Management Funding Assistance Program for the upcoming fiscal year. This funding will be used to restore and maintain critically eroded beaches across the state. 
  • $100 million for alternative water supply projects – These projects are essential to ensuring a clean and safe supply of water for Florida’s natural resources and growing population. Funding will be focused on critical needs through working with water management districts, local communities and established regional water supply partnerships.
  • $65 million for springs restoration and protection projects – Surpassing last year’s record investment of $50 million, Governor Scott is recommending a historic investment of $65 million in springs restoration and protection projects. This funding will build on the state’s investment of $135 million over the past four years, which has been leveraged with local match funding for a total investment of more than $267.8 million to protect Florida’s famous springs for future generations. 
  • $60 million for Indian River Lagoon and Caloosahatchee Cleanup Initiative – The funding includes $40 million for a 50/50 state matching grant program with local communities affected by algal blooms that the region experienced last year. This voluntary program will provide funding to encourage residents to move from septic tanks to sewer systems in order to curb pollution that is currently entering these water bodies. Additionally, this proposal will support local communities to help build wastewater systems to meet the increased demand for wastewater services. Funding also includes $20 million for muck dredging and other capital improvement projects needed to improve water quality and reduce sources of pollution in these waterways.
  • $50 million for Florida State Parks – This funding includes $40 million for facility improvements for Florida’s award-winning state park system, which welcomed a record 31 million visitors last year. This includes an additional $4 million for ADA projects focused on making parks more accessible to all visitors, and $6 million for other projects important to the maintenance and management of state parks.
  • $55 million for land acquisition – The budget recommends $10 million for the acquisition of key projects identified as of part of the Florida Forever program, an additional $5 million for acquisition dedicated to the protection of the Florida Keys, and $10 million for the Florida Communities Trust program. It also proposes $30 million for land acquisition to advance the Northern Everglades restoration effort, which will help reduce harmful discharges to the downstream estuaries, improve water quality in Lake Okeechobee and benefit the water supply for Floridians and the state’s natural resources. 
  • $22.2 million for Wastewater Treatment Facility Storm Preparedness grant program – Following a series of sewer overflows that occurred during Hurricanes Hermine and Matthew, Governor Scott directed DEP to investigate the overflows and identify underlying causes and potential solutions. This funding will allow DEP to provide grants to local governments and utilities to promote better storm preparedness and prevent future overflows. The Wastewater Treatment Facility Storm Preparedness grant program will offer up to a 75 percent state matching grant with local communities and will be dependent on the size of the facility, with smaller facilities being eligible for a higher level of matching assistance. 

“Through the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future Budget,’ Governor Scott continues to make historic investments in our state’s many natural treasures and the communities surrounding them,” said DEP Secretary Jon Steverson. “Florida’s unique environment is known across the globe and helps attract millions of families to our state each year. DEP looks forward to continuing to work each day to preserve and protect these natural resources for future generations to enjoy.”

“It’s exciting to see the recommended funding for septic-to-sewer projects,” said Eric Draper, executive director of Audubon Florida. “We hope these funds will provide an incentive to local governments to address water pollution from septic tanks.”  

“The Nature Conservancy appreciates Governor Scott investing in projects that are important to improving water quality and helping to protect and restore some of Florida’s most treasured natural places” said Temperince Morgan, executive director of The Nature Conservancy in Florida. 

“Through this budget, Governor Scott continues to demonstrate that investing in water supply and wastewater projects is vital to the long-term sustainability and reliability of Florida’s water and wastewater infrastructure, the health of its communities and the environment,” said Gary Williams, executive director of Florida Rural Water Association.

“Our coastal communities and local governments are most appreciative of Governor Scott’s budget commitment to sustaining and repairing Florida’s beaches. It is further evidence of his recognition and appreciation of the economic importance of healthy beaches to tourism, storm damage reduction, and our quality of life,” said Deborah Flack, president of Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association. “FSBPA’s members are further grateful to the Governor for raising awareness of the need to proactively preserve our beaches. His budget commitment of over $111 million for supplemental hurricane damages and increased traditional program funding make him a true champion on behalf of Florida’s beaches.”

“We’re grateful to Governor Scott for his commitment to Florida State Parks, including a focus on increasing accessibility for all visitors to enjoy the best state parks in the nation,” said Paula Russo, president of Friends of Florida State Parks.

“We commend the Governor for his commitment to continuing to support and grow Florida’s famous network of greenways and trails, especially in small communities,” said Joe Beckham, president of Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation.

“We are pleased that this year’s budget will enable significant improvements to the accessibility of our state parks so that more individuals will be able to enjoy their beauty and recreational opportunities,” said David C. Jones, president of Florida Disabled Outdoors Association. “FDOA looks forward to continuing to work with Florida State Parks on inclusion for all individuals in their pursuit for outdoor recreation.”

Gov. Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests more than $91 million for the Department of State

Posted on

Florida Department of State
Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner today applauded Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget for Fiscal Year 2017-2018, which invests $91.2 million in the Department of State. Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget makes key investments to continue Florida’s great track record of successful elections administration and also supports cultural heritage tourism and economic development. 
Governor Scott, said, “The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget continues our commitment to making important investments to ensure successful elections administration for decades to come. We are also investing in the many historic and cultural treasures among Florida communities that help bring more families and visitors to our great state each year.”
Governor Scott’s proposed budget includes:

  • $13.7 million in elections administration funding to improve the voter experience in Florida and ensure elections officials, including Supervisors of Elections, have the resources necessary to successfully administer elections.
  • $25.3 million in funding to libraries to provide many valuable services to citizens through continuing education, workforce development and literacy, computer skills, and activities related to employment and entrepreneurship.
  • $5.8 million in grant funding to library cooperatives and other library resources throughout the state which will improve information sharing among libraries and better meet the informational and educational needs of Florida residents.
  • $3.1 million in historic preservation grant funding which is proven to boost both the economy and quality of life through restoration and rehabilitation projects of historic buildings and structures, as well as through survey and evaluation of historic and archaeological resources and education about Florida history.
  • $6 million in cultural and museum grant funding to create more cultural heritage activities and tourist attraction opportunities, which directly correlates to the creation of new jobs and spending in communities throughout the state. 

Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner, said, “Thanks to Governor Scott’s leadership, in 2016, we showed Florida, the nation, and the world, that Florida knows how to run elections. Governor Scott’s ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget will help Florida continue to make improvements to the elections process and also makes critical investments that improve the quality of life for all Floridians. Governor Scott’s commitment to investments in library grants, cultural programs, and historic preservation support cultural heritage tourism and economic development, ensuring Florida continues to be one of the world’s best places to live, work and play for generations to come.”
Malinda Horton, Executive Director of the Florida Association of Museums, said, “Cultural organizations and museums provide many benefits to communities throughout Florida and strengthen the economy and job creation. We applaud Governor Scott for his continued dedication to cultural and museum grant funding.”
Lois Benson, Chair of the Florida Council on Arts & Culture, said, “Funding for culturally-based activities improves quality of life and increases opportunities for all Floridians. We thank Governor Scott for his support of arts and culture in the State of Florida.”
Marion Almy, Chairman of the Florida Historical Commission, said, “Governor Scott understands that historic preservation serves as an economic engine for Florida communities and supports cultural heritage tourism. Investments in historical properties are an investment in Florida’s future.”
Charlie Parker, Executive Director, Tampa Bay Library Consortium, said, “Governor Scott recognizes the significant contributions that libraries provide to Florida citizens. From supporting early learning and providing homework assistance to career exploration, information literacy, and lifelong learning, libraries provide critical services to our communities.”