Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Recommends Eliminating Over 1,000 Jobs and Proposes $1 Billion in Tax Cuts

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
05/12/2023 23h27

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, has unveiled his budget proposal for Florida, recommending the elimination of more than 1,000 state jobs and proposing over $1 billion in tax cuts. The spending plan, which aims to reduce the current budget by $4.6 billion, also includes the continuation of popular sales tax holidays.

DeSantis announced his budget at a news conference held far from the state Capitol, specifically at a charter school on Marco Island in southwest Florida. During the conference, the governor chose to focus more on past achievements, but he did express his disappointment regarding the exclusion of the undefeated Florida State University (FSU) Seminoles from the college football championship playoffs.

In an unexpected move, DeSantis announced that he is requesting $1 million to allow FSU to sue the College Football Playoff committee, despite the fact that the championship will be decided before the budget is approved. The governor explained, "My first-grader, my fifth-grader, and my preschooler - they are all 'noles and they are big-time fans... We are going to set aside $1 million and let the chips fall where they may."

In addition to the proposed job cuts, DeSantis recommended over $1 billion in tax cuts, including the reinstatement of sales tax holidays for school and hurricane supplies, as well as for recreational activities.

It is important to note that DeSantis' budget recommendation is merely a suggestion to the Legislature, which will commence its annual session next month. After the Legislature reaches an agreement on a spending plan, DeSantis will have the power to veto individual items.

The governor's proposed budget reflects his focus on fiscal responsibility and his commitment to reducing the burden on taxpayers. However, it remains to be seen how these recommendations will fare during the legislative session and what changes might be made before a final budget is approved.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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