Issues of Interest

GROWTH IN GENERAL REVENUES State economists have updated their general revenue figures in preparation for the 2015 Legislative Session.  The figures, last reported in August, estimate an additional $70 million for the coffers.  This increase will push the projected surplus to over $400 million.  STATE PENSION REFORM House Speaker Steve Crisafulli announced his support to Read more about Issues of Interest[…]

Winter 2013 Economic Updates

REVENUE ESTIMATING CONFERENCE.  The State Revenue Estimating Conference on Friday, December 6th to update their projections.  State economists predict an additional $324.3 million in tax revenues for the current and next fiscal years.  This is in addition to the $845.7 million that had previously been expected. TAX CUTS.  With the increase in revenues, the debate Read more about Winter 2013 Economic Updates[…]

Late Summer 2013 Economic Update

The Revenue Estimating Conference met on August 9th to discuss the State of Florida’s revenue projections for the current and future fiscal years.  Anticipated revenue for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 has been revised upward by $294 million, most of which is attributable to a $200.1 million one-time payment from the National Mortgage Settlement.  For Fiscal Year Read more about Late Summer 2013 Economic Update[…]

Other Major Legislative Issues

Health Care Reform – Both the Senate and House have now rejected an expansion of the Medicaid program under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to include Floridians at or below 138% of the federal poverty level.  Senate Committee Chairman Joe Negron (R-Stuart) said he would like to pursue a “Florida Plan“, a voucher-like alternative that would Read more about Other Major Legislative Issues[…]

2013-2014 Governor’s Budget

Governor Rick Scott’s proposed $74.2 billion budget for fiscal year 2013-2014, entitled “Florida Families First”, uses the higher than projected general revenue tax collections to balance the plan. An estimated $260 million of this projected revenue is set aside to fund two priorities – a $1.2 billion increase for public schools and the elimination of Read more about 2013-2014 Governor’s Budget[…]