Governor Ron DeSantis recently released his proposed Framework for Freedom Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, which includes a $3.9 billion increase over the current year’s budget and $2 billion in tax relief for Florida families.[0] The budget also includes high-priority conservation items such as python eradication and control, as well as enhanced protections for manatees, sea turtles, and seagrass restoration.[0] Additionally, it includes support for law enforcement and realignment of priorities across state agencies.[1]
In addition to the budget proposal, DeSantis has made it clear that he is seeking to ban diversity, equity and inclusion programs, including critical race theory, at Florida colleges.[2] He has also proposed $100 million for the recruitment and retention of highly qualified faculty at state universities.[3]
DeSantis is also pushing to change the law so that death penalties in Florida no longer require a unanimous jury.[4] He has voiced his opinion that “maybe 8 out of 12” jurors should suffice.[5]
The Governor’s budget proposals and other initiatives will be presented to the Florida House and Senate for consideration during their Session beginning March 7th.[1] Despite the Governor’s recommendations, the Legislature ultimately determines the state budget for the year.[1]
Finally, Disney has made its first public statement this year about the Reedy Creek Improvement District, reiterating their commitment to providing a high-quality experience for guests who visit the resorts each year.[6]
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. “Florida’s DeSantis announces crime-fighting initiatives | Florida …” www.thecentersquare.com, 24 Feb. 2023, https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/floridas-desantis-announces-crime-fighting-initiatives/article_c96b4546-9dbc-11ed-bb2d-7ff961831785.html
5. “Ron DeSantis wants to end unanimous jury for death penalty, thus …” boingboing.net, 24 Feb. 2023, https://boingboing.net/2023/01/24/ron-desantis-wants-to-end-unanimous-jury-for-death-penalty-thus-more-executions-video.html
6. “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/
