Grimsley Expects House to Approve $69.2 Billion Budget Next Week

Rep. Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement regarding the committees passage of the 2012-13 General Appropriations Act.

I am pleased the House Appropriations Committee has acted swiftly to pass a balanced, fiscally responsible budget that will not increase the burden of state government on taxpayers.

After listening to Floridians, the need to prioritize the delivery of services over the purchase of things is clear. As such, the House budget increases Pre-K-12 education funding by more than $1 billion. Additionally, like Florida families, government must responsibly plan for the future. This budget strikes the right balance between funding our states priorities and maintaining the reserves needed to both preserve our bond rating and prepare for any future economic uncertainty.

I appreciate the hard work of my colleagues and their commitment to sending a positive message to our business community by finishing our work on time. I look forward to seeing our budget pass the House floor next week.

The Appropriations Committee has recommended a $69.2 billion budget for the fiscal year 2012-13 consisting of general revenue funds totaling $24.3 billion, state trust funds totaling $20.4 billion and federal funds totaling $24.5 billion. The budget increases Pre-K-12 education funding by more than $1 billion and includes more than $2.46 billion in reserves.