Advocacy Alert: Gov. Ron DeSantis signs state budget
June 12, 2024
By FICPA Governmental Affairs Team
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday signed HB 5001 – General Appropriation Act, commonly referred to as the state budget, for fiscal year 2024-25.
The state constitution requires the Florida Legislature pass a balanced budget each Legislative Session. The governor then has line-item veto authority to review items passed by the Legislature before signing the budget into law.
On Wednesday, as part of his actions in signing the budget, Gov. DeSantis vetoed $949,611,399 that was originally approved by the Legislature. This year’s final GAA totaled $116.5 billion, which includes $17 billion in reserves. The state fiscal year begins July 1.
You can access the governor's veto list here.
Of interest to the CPA profession, $200,000 has once again been approved for the Clay Ford Scholarship Program, which awards financial aid to fifth-year students pursuing their CPA license. Separately, $100,000 has likewise been allocated to the Department of Business and Professional Development to combat unlicensed activity, helping to protect the reputation of the profession.
The signing of the state budget is notable, as the governor is winding down his review of the bills passed by the Legislature during the 2024 Session. We will continue to keep you updated on the implementation of legislation important to you and the CPA profession.