The Senate appears to be following the House’s lead in providing no money for the Florida Forever land acquisition program. But a key budget subcommittee chairman is holding out hope for the program and Everglades restoration, writes Bruce Ritchie.
Florida Forever was the largest land-buying program in the nation before the Legislature began slashing funding in 2009. The program is a top priority each year for environmental groups.
The House’s proposed $69.1 billion budget includes $30 million for Everglades restoration and nothing for Florida Forever. Gov. Rick Scott had requested $15 million for Florida Forever and $40 million for Everglades restoration.
Draft Senate budget spreadsheets distributed Wednesday included no money for either program.
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