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FLORIDA - Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a $117 billion budget plan for 2025 that expands state spending across schools, infrastructure, law enforcement, and health programs.
The proposal is $2.2 billion higher than last year’s $115.6 billion recommendation and continues the growth trend from DeSantis’ first $91 billion budget.
Education makes up a major portion of the proposed increase.
The governor is requesting $1.56 billion for teacher pay raises across Florida.
The plan also includes $30.6 billion for the overall K to 12 system and $1.7 billion directed to early childhood education.
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Education makes up a major portion of the proposed increase.
The governor is requesting $1.56 billion for teacher pay raises across Florida.
The plan also includes $30.6 billion for the overall K to 12 system and $1.7 billion directed to early childhood education.
Last year’s proposal allocated $29.7 billion for K to 12 education and $465.8 million for Voluntary Pre Kindergarten initiatives.
The state university system would receive $4 billion under the new plan.
DeSantis also outlined additional investments in public safety, including pay increases for law enforcement officers and the continuation of a recruitment bonus program that provides $5,000 for new hires.
This follows last year’s request for $118.3 million in pay raises for law enforcement and firefighters.
Transportation funding is another key area.
The proposal includes $15.4 billion for the Florida Department of Transportation and $14.3 billion for the statewide transportation work program.
Health and social services are also part of the plan.
DeSantis is seeking $8.6 million to improve State Veterans Nursing Homes, $36.6 million for the child welfare system, and $159 million for behavioral health services such as diversion and discharge programs.
The proposal will be reviewed by state lawmakers during the upcoming legislative session.
