Mike Haridopolos and Dean Cannon Praise Budget Agreement

In the opening moments of the House session on Tuesday, the chamber had a guest -- Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, who thanked the House members for their work on the budget.

Despite some contention, the two chambers announced an agreement on general revenue allocations on Tuesday morning and the Senate president spoke briefly from the House floor.

I miss the House, said a smiling Haridopolos.

You have all been great partners, added Haridopolos, who praised Speaker Dean Cannon, R-Winter Park, and Appropriations Chairwoman Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring. Were looking forward to bringing a balanced budget to Florida with no new taxes or special fees.

Haridopolos added that Cannon was a strong conservative.

Cannon expressed optimism on the final steps of the budget negotiations.

It is the toughest budget since my time here, said Cannon. Were poised to bring this to a landing on time.