DeSantis Rolls out his $114.4 Billion Budget Proposal

Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis (R-FL) announced his 2024 $114.4 billion proposed budget for the State of Florida.

Sticking to several of presidential themes, Gov. DeSantis rolled out this plan at a charter school on Marco Island.

“We have, since I’ve become governor, paid off 25% of our state’s total debt. ... That’s something you don’t see many other states doing and you certainly don’t see Washington doing that, I can tell you that,” said DeSantis.

Various organizations have thanked the Florida governor for the allotments provided to them.

The Everglades Trust applauded the proposal which granted the organization $740 million for Everglades restoration.

“An immense thank you to Governor DeSantis for recommending more than $740 million for Everglades restoration in the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and for continuing his strong and unwavering commitment to America’s Everglades,” stated CEO Anna Upton.

Upton continued to thank Gov. DeSantis saying, “Under the Governor’s leadership, we have seen projects expedited and advanced, and time and again, he has recommended a high level of funding for restoring and preserving the Everglades. It is because of this, our state, Floridians, and tourists alike will be able to see the positive effects of his advocacy and dedication to the Everglades.”

She also added that Florida’s “water-based economy” relies on the Everglades as an “economic engine” for the Sunshine State.

Furthermore, Safety Net Hospital Alliance thanked Gov. DeSantis for the $116.8 million investment to “improve and maintain access to world class maternity & neonatal care in Florida.”

The CEO of Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida Justin Senior mentioned, “The Governor's commitment to Florida's families, and moms and babies is clear. His budget proposal to add $116.8 million for the expansion and protection of maternal care and NICUs will no doubt save lives and improve health care outcomes for the most vulnerable Floridians. Our member hospitals are proud to provide world class care to expectant mothers and newborn babies, some of whom have complex health care needs. This over $116 million in funding is a major investment to ensure Floridians never have to travel far to get the excellent care they need."

Additionally, Florida State University (FSU) was left out of the College Football Playoff despite being an undefeated conference champion, more prominent politicians including Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), and Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis are calling for transparency, including litigation.

Gov. DeSantis announced that $1 million in the state budget would be set aside to fund any litigation should the State of Florida pursue action against the College Football Playoff Committee.