The new budget laid out by Gov. Ron DeSantis for fiscal years 2025-26 kicks off with tax cuts again for Floridians.
One of the proposed tax cuts is called “Second Amendment Summer.” It would be another tax holiday that would go from Memorial Day to July 4 and exempt the sales tax on ammunition, firearms, and related accessories. The other sales tax holiday is known as “Tool Time,” which exempts the sales tax on certain products, such as specified tools and equipment used by skilled labor.
The budget the governor has set forth comes in at around $115.6 billion, which his office says is $3 billion lower than the current year’s budget.
Pay raises are also included for state police and firefighters. The governor’s budget shows 20% for entry-level sworn law enforcement officers, 25% for veteran sworn law enforcement officers, and 25% for firefighters.
For environmental and conservation programs, DeSantis proposal calls for $1 billion for Everglades restoration and water quality improvements.
The Everglades Trust CEO Anna Upton praised the governor for making good on his word to protect and restore the Everglades with historical funding.
“He understands that investing in Everglades restoration not only helps the environment but also yields a significant return for the state, as Florida’s economy depends on clean water and a healthy and restored Everglades,” said Upton.
Governor DeSantis is also putting more money in the budget for immigration enforcement. In the area of $1.5 million that would hire 15 new full-time positions.
The final numbers for the budget this year will certainly change as legislators will try to put in member projects for their district and whether it stays in or is vetoed by the governor.
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