On Wednesday, February 1st Governor Ron DeSantis released the proposed Fiscal 2023-2024 Framework for Freedom Budget, which includes high-priority conservation items such as python eradication, manatee and sea turtle protection, seagrass restoration, and support for law enforcement.[0] The proposed budget totals $114.8 billion, with a $3.9 billion increase over the current year’s $110.9 billion budget.[1] It is estimated to save Florida families up to $1,000 a year, with a “Freedom Summer” tax holiday estimated to save an additional $224 million.[2]
The budget also includes a one-year sales tax exemption on children’s items like books and toys, as well as a permanent sales tax exemption on baby and toddler necessities such as clothing, cribs and strollers.[2] In addition, the tax relief plan will save Florida businesses $141.4 million by increasing the amount of savings for businesses who e-file to the first $60 of their sales tax return.[1]
However, the budget has been met with controversy as Governor DeSantis has also proposed to change the law so that death penalties in his state no longer require a unanimous jury decision.[3] This has been met with some resistance, as well as his proposed ban on diversity, equity and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, at Florida colleges.
Finally, the proposed budget also affects Disney World, as the Reedy Creek Improvement District is set to be impacted. Regardless of the outcome, Disney has stated that they remain committed to providing the highest quality experience for their guests.[4]
0. “FWC: Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget …” www.midfloridanewspapers.com, 22 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, 22 Feb. 2023, https://gunster.com/alerts/the-framework-for-freedom-governor-ron-desantis-state-budget-recommendation-for-the-2023-2024-fiscal-year/
2. “Gov. Ron DeSantis highlights plan to provide a historic $2 billion in …” www.chronicleonline.com, 22 Feb. 2023, https://www.chronicleonline.com/weeklies/levy_county_citizen/local_news/gov-ron-desantis-highlights-plan-to-provide-a-historic-2-billion-in-tax-relief-for/article_31dd7ec5-4725-52a6-aa42-88bc504af8b8.html
3. “Ron DeSantis wants to end unanimous jury for death penalty, thus …” boingboing.net, 22 Feb. 2023, https://boingboing.net/2023/01/24/ron-desantis-wants-to-end-unanimous-jury-for-death-penalty-thus-more-executions-video.html
4. “Ron DeSantis would pick Disney World district board under new bill …” www.themeparktribune.com, 22 Feb. 2023, https://www.themeparktribune.com/ron-desantis-would-pick-disney-world-district-board-under-new-bill/
