U.S. Rep. John Mica: No More Taxpayer Money for High-Speed Rail

Republican U.S. Rep. John Mica, chairman of the House Transportation Committee, met with Gov. Rick Scott Monday to talk about Florida's transportation projects, including a high-speed rail line connecting Tampa and Orlando.

Mica, of Winter Park, who represents Florida's 7th Congressional District, called for no more government funding for the project and said he and Gov. Scott are on the same wave length.

"I think we're on a very similar frequency. I personally don't believe any more taxpayer dollars should go to (high-speed rail), federal or state," Mica said after leaving the Governor's Mansion.

The federal government has pledged $2.4 billion for the line, leaving $280 million to be funded by the state, but Scott and other legislative leaders in Tallahassee have called for private investment to make up the difference. Mica echoed those sentiments Monday.

"The private sector needs to step up to the plate," he said.

Scott was not immediately available for comment.