Legislative Leaders Praise Rick Scott's Proposed Budget

The leaders of the Florida Senate and House weighed in on Monday after Gov. Rick Scott unveiled his $65.8 billion proposed budget in Eustis.

The GOP leadership that controls both houses praised their fellow Republicans proposed budget -- which is $5 billion less than the one the Legislature passed the year before under Gov. Charlie Crist -- for cutting back on state spending and not raising taxes.

Its impressive that after one month on the job Governor Scott has prepared a comprehensive budget so quickly, said Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island. The Senate is dedicated to working with the governor to provide a balanced budget with no new taxes. The best way to improve the business environment in Florida is to keep taxes low and live within our means. We will do that. I also thank Governor Scott for unveiling his proposed budget directly to the people so that he can get feedback from the citizens of Florida.

House Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, offered cautious optimism in his response to the proposed budget.

Governor Scott has proposed budget recommendations, which he believes reflect the principles he espoused on the campaign trail, said Cannon. Over the next few weeks, we look forward to thoroughly reviewing these recommendations.

The first and highest priorities of the Florida House are to cut government spending and not raise taxes, added Cannon. I am grateful that Governor Scott shares these goals.

Sign up for news alerts from Sunshine State News