For the first time in five years, the Legislature could be looking at a $436 million budget surplus when it begins its budget deliberations next spring, according to the most recent estimates by state economists. This surplus could evaporate, however, should the state lose a lawsuit regarding the state pension system currently before the Florida Supreme Read more about Issues of Interest[…]
Nearly 8.4 million Floridians had cast their ballots for the 2012 General Election by the time the polls closed in Miami-Dade County shortly after 1 a.m., six hours beyond the regularly scheduled time. Voter turnout in Florida reached 70%, which was slightly lower than 2008’s 75% participation. More than 4.5 million, or nearly 40 percent, Read more about November: From the Capitol…[…]
Florida’s political landscape was only slightly altered as a result of the recent elections. While the Republicans still maintain a majority of the seats in both the Florida Senate and House of Representatives, Republican supermajorities were lost. Statewide, twelve incumbents were defeated and sixty-seven legislative newcomers were elected, including seven former lawmakers. Florida’s Secretary of Read more about 2012 Elections[…]
Florida voters also considered eleven amendments to the state constitution on Election Day. All but three fell short of the 60 percent threshold for approval. Amendment 2 extends homestead exemptions to combat disabled veterans who were not Florida residents when they enlisted; Amendment 9 provides an additional homestead exemption to the surviving spouses of military Read more about Constitutional Amendments[…]
General revenue tax collections continue to improve, largely due to increased sales tax collections. The September collections were $54.6 million over earlier projections and general revenue is $162.2 million above estimates for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. Florida has significantly reduced its outstanding debt by $1.5 billion this fiscal year compared to $500 million last fiscal Read more about Issues of Interest[…]