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Gov. Rick Scott

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

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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 announces more than $16 million in research grant awards to cure cancer and tobacco-related diseases

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Governor Rick Scott announced that over $16 million in research funding was awarded to 16 different projects through the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program and the James and Esther King Biomedical Research Program. These funds, dispersed among a number of universities and cancer research centers across the state, will support researchers in their efforts to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and to develop cures for cancer and tobacco-related diseases.
Governor Scott said, “Florida continues to be a leader in research and innovation, and I am proud to announce the recipients of more than $16 million for cancer research grants today. These important projects not only help us discover more about how to prevent and treat these terrible diseases, but also keep world-class researchers in our state. We all know someone who has been impacted by cancer, and I am proud to continue working with our incredible research institutes as we fight to find a cure.”
State Surgeon General and Secretary Dr. Celeste Philip said, “Cancer and tobacco related disease continue to impact too many of Florida’s families. Investing in Florida’s research institutions to effect change in the areas of prevention, diagnosis and treatment is critical to the future of health care innovation in our state.”
The following organizations received awards:

  • Florida A&M University – $94,810 for one project;
  • Florida Atlantic University – $622,683 for one project;
  • H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute – $7,162,380 for six projects;
  • University of Florida – $2,648,986 for two projects; and
  • University of Miami – $5,728,856 for six projects.

The funding supports a new series of projects related to cancer and tobacco-related diseases, including prevention and treatment, health disparities, treatment-related morbidities and the development of investigational new drugs. The cancer research focuses on the most common cancers such as breast, lung, skin and colon cancer. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) awarded these grants based on rigorous peer review. The application process was particularly competitive, with 201 researchers seeking funding.
Dr. Daniel Armstrong, Chair of the Biomedical Research Advisory Council said, “Each year we receive outstanding research proposals that help us move forward with the goals of our state biomedical research plan and this year was no different. I am excited to see how these projects will better the lives of Florida’s patients.
Dr. Christopher Cogle, Chair of the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council said, “Supporting cancer research through this funding helps advance our goal of finding cures for these devastating diseases. Our State continues to do a fantastic job of identifying meaningful projects to put our support behind and I’m grateful to be part of this process.”

ICYMI: Daytona Beach News-Journal: Gov. Scott champions an affordable education

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Another Viewpoint: Gov. Scott champions an affordable education
Daytona Beach News-Journal
Editorial
February 3, 2017
Compared to other states, Florida already offers a bargain in higher education. Gov. Rick Scott wants to make college even more affordable.
Scott last month unveiled proposals to freeze tuition at state colleges (it’s already frozen at state universities), cap fees at colleges and universities, expand Bright Futures scholarships to cover summer classes and eliminate sales taxes on required textbooks.
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Average in-state tuition at Florida universities runs about $6,000 a year, below the national average of $9,650. When you add the costs of attendance, which include room and board, technology and books, Florida’s total swells to $21,000 annually.
That’s over $80,000 to earn a four-year degree – and only 44 percent of undergraduate students at the state’s universities graduate within four years. Of course, additional years cost additional money. The sooner a student graduates, the cheaper his college bill will be.
Thus would Scott’s proposal to have Bright Futures cover the cost of summer school help students graduate either on time or earlier.
…
Scott’s latest plans reflect his ongoing commitment to make college affordability a priority. Last year he signed into law legislation that requires the Board of Governors to come up with ways to promote college affordability, such as making the costs of textbooks and other course materials publicly available to students before they register for a class, so they can factor that information in when they’re selecting courses. It also requires colleges and universities to adopt policies that will make textbooks more affordable. Previously, he has challenged schools to offer $10,000 degrees, and one year vetoed appropriations at colleges that had raised tuition.
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Regardless of the details, what’s most important and encouraging is that Tallahassee is trying to control costs by holding the line on prices and by ensuring that students don’t buy more than they absolutely have to.

Gov. Scott announces grant funding for Zika Virus research and vaccine development

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Governor Rick Scott announced today 34 grant awards for Zika virus research following his authorization of $25 million in state funds for Zika research and vaccine development last fall. Grant funding will be used to help expedite the development of a vaccine to prevent Zika infection, understand and mitigate long-term impacts of Zika virus on children and adults and develop innovative, cost-effective Zika testing methods.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce the recipients of these important research grants today. While we are currently in winter months when Zika is not as prevalent, we must remain vigilant and continue to do everything we can to help protect pregnant women and their developing babies. I look forward to seeing the innovation and progress of Florida’s world-class research institutions as we continue to work together in the fight against Zika and to find a vaccine.”
State Surgeon General and Secretary Dr. Celeste Philip said, “While we are currently experiencing a seasonal reprieve from the Zika virus, we cannot relax our efforts. I am grateful for Governor Scott’s leadership that enables us to provide researchers in Florida funds to expand the body of knowledge related to Zika, particularly in the areas of prevention and effects on infants and children.”
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) oversaw the grant process, which was awarded through a competitive process based on recommendations by the Biomedical Research Advisory Council. Researchers at any university or research institute in Florida were eligible to apply.
The following organizations received grant funding awards: 
Florida Atlantic University – $199,280 
Florida International University – $2,183,004 
Florida State University – $2,169,675
Moffitt Cancer Center – $199,280 
Nova Southeastern University – $198,886 
The Scripps Research Institute – $199,280
University of Central Florida – $1,297,817
University of Florida – $2,922,999
University of Miami – $13,170,784
University of South Florida – $2,458,995
For a full breakdown on projects and grant funding, please click HERE.

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

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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

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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.