On Wednesday, February 1st, Governor Ron DeSantis released his proposed Framework for Freedom Budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.[0] The proposed budget is a $114.8 billion spending plan with a $3.9 billion dollar increase from the current year’s budget of $110.9 billion. The Framework for Freedom Budget includes high-priority conservation items such as eradication and control of pythons and other nonnative species, enhanced protections for Florida’s manatees and sea turtles, statewide seagrass restoration support, and support for law enforcement.[0]
The budget also proposes a $2 billion cut in taxes to provide relief to Florida families.[1] This includes the $500 million Toll Relief Program.[1] This budget carries out Governor DeSantis’ commitment to Florida’s K-12 students, parents, teachers, environmental resources, and law enforcement, while maintaining healthy reserves.[0]
In addition to the new budget, Governor DeSantis is also pushing for a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, in Florida colleges.[2] He announced this plan at a press conference on January 31st and the budget includes $100 million for the recruitment and retention of highly qualified faculty at state universities.[3]
The budget must be balanced and it is the only bill the Legislature is required to pass each year.[1] The Legislature will make their final decisions during the session that begins on Tuesday, March 7th.[1] Regardless of the outcome, Disney remains committed to providing the highest quality experience for the millions of guests who visit each year.[4]
0. “FWC: Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget …” www.midfloridanewspapers.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://www.midfloridanewspapers.com/polk_news_sun/fwc-governor-ron-desantis-framework-for-freedom-budget-promotes-natural-resource-restoration-initiatives-and-supports/article_9a37a7f8-aed1-11ed-87eb-abdaed5e19d2.html
1. “”The Framework for Freedom,” Governor Ron DeSantis’ State …” gunster.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://gunster.com/alerts/the-framework-for-freedom-governor-ron-desantis-state-budget-recommendation-for-the-2023-2024-fiscal-year/
2. “Trust & Verify: Gov. Ron DeSantis takes steps to ban diversity, equity …” www.winknews.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://www.winknews.com/2023/02/02/trust-verify-gov-ron-desantis-takes-steps-to-ban-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-programs-at-florida-colleges/
3. “Governor Ron DeSantis unveils higher education reform” www.fox4now.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://www.fox4now.com/news/state/governor-ron-desantis-makes-stop-in-bradenton
4. “Ron DeSantis would pick Disney World district board under new bill …” www.themeparktribune.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://www.themeparktribune.com/ron-desantis-would-pick-disney-world-district-board-under-new-bill/
