May 26, 2011

“Today, Gov. Rick Scott inked a fiscally responsible budget that puts Florida back on a path toward economic prosperity by making wise investments in areas that will lead to business expansion and job creation, while also shrinking a burgeoning government that exceeded our financial capacity to pay for it. Thanks to Gov. Scott and the Florida Legislature, this budget was balanced without creating any new fees or taxes – a burden neither taxpayers nor businesses could afford.

This budget also reflects savings realized through bold reforms that will modernize our Medicaid and public pension systems. Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) applauds Senate President Haridopolos, Speaker Cannon and all the leaders in both chambers who helped Florida join the ranks of a majority of states that require public employees to contribute to their own retirement, just as most public-sector employees do.

While AIF is disappointed the Governor decided not to veto the sweep of the State Transportation Trust Fund, we are pleased with the many important economic development measures that were part of his original budget vision and will now come to fruition. Funding for Visit Florida, Space Florida and incentives that are a critical part of our economic development tool kit will ensure our tourism industry remains vibrant, help maintain Florida as a leader in the space industry and attract new businesses to the Sunshine State.

It was a year when many tough choices had to be made. Both Gov. Scott through his budget recommendations and the Legislature through the budget it sent forward to the Governor, did an exceptional job of doing what was in the best interest of Florida’s future.”