The special session, which will begin at 9 a.m. on Wednesday and extend to 6 p.m. Friday, is for the "exclusive purpose" of considering an increase in per-pupil funding for K-12 education and increased funding and accountability measures for Visit Florida, Enterprise Florida and other economic programs, according to Scott's proclamation calling for the special session.
Scott proposed $85 million for Enterprise Florida to use for business incentives, but lawmakers did not provide any of that funding.
Though lawmakers insist they will pass legislation implementing the voters' will before a key July 3 deadline, Corcoran said Friday morning they still do not have a deal on whether to cap the number of storefront dispensaries each licensed grower could open.
The "Schools of Hope" plan is one of Corcoran's top priorities, but it has taken heavy criticism from school leaders around the state. Under the deal reached by the governor and lawmakers, the reduced funding for the state's economic development partnership will remain, but Scott will be given $85 million to offer incentives to locating or expanding businesses.
Scott said he has not decided whether to sign HB 7069. The budget approved by the Legislature only includes $25 million.
Lib Dems pledge to end 'Orwellian' snooping powers in manifesto
Give almost £7 billion extra for schools and colleges including protecting per-pupil funding in real terms. New policies include allowing tenants to use rent payments to buy their own homes.
I dont think we should be spending what NY is spending or California, and I dont think we should be offering $100 million (incentive deals) or whatever people do.
Scott, who chairs the Enterprise Florida board, has expressed anger with the funding package but hasnt indicated if hell sign the $82.4 billion budget before a June 15 deadline or detailed the extent of potential vetoes.
"Rick Scott and Richard Corcoran represent dirty, backroom politics at its worst, and this secret budget fails Florida's working families", Florida Democratic Party spokeswoman Johanna Cervone said in a statement. While Corcoran criticized a $1 million promotional contract with rapper Pitbull and likened economic incentives to "corporate welfare", Scott toured the state labeling Corcoran and other House members as "job killers". It was a priority of Corcoran and includes benefits to charter schools. "It's my understanding that with regard to the budget there is a pathway forward for consideration of an agreement that would increase funds for Visit Florida..." said Negron on Friday at the press conference. The bill would have capped Enterprise Florida salaries at $130,273. It also has big cuts in hospital payments, raises for state workers and money to help divert polluted water from Lake Okeechobee away from estuaries on both coasts, another Negron priority. Without legislative action, more of the responsibility for the regulatory framework would fall on the state Department of Health.
"We voted twice and we've gone through an entire legislative session, and now they're coming back for a special session that possibly does not include medical marijuana".
