Florida House Budget Priorities

The following is a the House Memorandum on their budget priorities:

Dear Members,

Attached please find the appropriations subcommittee allocations for the development of the House proposed FY 2014-15 General Appropriations Act. Due to improved economic conditions and the continued fiscal constraint of the Legislature, our state is well on the road to financial recovery. It remains vitally important to maintain the disciplined fiscal principles that led us to where we are today but also recognize that the state can now afford to return revenues to the taxpayer in addition to funding state priorities. The allocations are the result of careful deliberations and are designed to ensure the following funding goals:

• Provide historic general revenue tax relief
• Maintain in excess of $1.2 billion in General Revenue reserves
• Provide the largest FEFP in Florida history and in excess of a 3 percent increase in per student funding in our public schools
• Increase funding in our institutions of higher learning as well as create performance incentives funding for our universities
• Eliminate the critical waiting list for persons with disabilities
• Provide strategic funding to ensure Florida's children are protected and have enhanced assistance in our judicial system.
• Ensure public safety through appropriately funding our correctional and judicial system.
• Protect and enhance Florida's environment by a comprehensive and balanced approach to water supply and quality, as well as to purchase lands to preserve Florida's unique natural resources and provide recreational opportunities
• Provide significant long term investment in infrastructure in our road and public education facilities. Boost one-time funding for infrastructure of state buildings, parks, as well as public libraries, cultural and historic facilities.

The Appropriations Committee and Subcommittees have been focused towards these goals. I encourage their continued thoughtful evaluation and innovation as they proceed to craft the FY 2014-15 General Appropriations Act. I trust in their good judgment and look forward to reviewing the product of their hard work.

Attachment: