Gov. Ron DeSantis ripped into the Legislature for not fulfilling their "one responsibility" to pass a budget, blaming lawmakers for failing to provide Floridians with a tax holiday ahead of the state's months-long looming hurricane season.
DeSantis's comments came at a Jupiter press conference on Friday, where he cautioned residents on how to prepare for the hurricane season beginning June 1. But without a budget, Florida hasn't had its usual disaster preparedness sales tax holiday.
This means items like generators, flashlights, or coolers weren't discounted during the May 15- May 31 holiday.
"No way we're going to allow the Legislature to not do their jobs," DeSantis said. "It's the one responsibility they have as legislators...This was totally avoidable.
"You guys should already be enjoying tax holidays right now," he added.
DeSantis has pushed for a series of sales tax holidays throughout his tenure, including on outdoor gear, back-to-school items, and tools. This summer, he'd hoped for a "Second Amendment summer" on guns and ammo—though it's looking less likely with the legislature's budget stalemate.
Florida has had six major hurricanes in the past seven years, after experiencing a decade-long drought of powerful storms. The season runs June 1 through Nov. 30.
Tense relations between the House and Senate have prevented legislative leaders from agreeing on a budget for the upcoming year. Due by July 1, it's the only item constitutionally required to pass.
Parts of the government may shut down if lawmakers don't agree in the next month.
