~Says the Framework for Freedom is a ‘Big Middle Finger’ to Washington~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued a statement applauding Governor DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom 2023-2024 budget.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Washington could learn a thing or two from Governor DeSantis on how to craft a budget. The Framework for Freedom budget serves as a complete contrast to the kind of failures that are happening in states like New York and California. While those failed states defund law enforcement, burn through their reserves, and keep feeding bloated bureaucracies, this budget fights inflation by providing $1.5 billion in tax relief, it keeps our reserves funded at $6.9 billion – and it supports our law enforcement, first responders and education. This legislation also supports new families with over $141 million in tax relief for baby and toddler items like clothing, shoes, strollers, and diapers. As someone who has two boys, I wish I could have had this kind of tax relief when our boys were born. 

“I am particularly heartened that this budget funds $12 million for transporting unauthorized aliens away from Florida. The second the administration relocated migrants to Martha’s Vineyard, there was an immediate effect where folks across the country truly felt that every state is a border state. The federal government has proven it’s completely ineffective when it comes to securing the border, and if we can use these investments to protect Floridians, it’s money-well-spent.

“Additionally, a permanent tax cut on gas stoves tugs at my heartstrings, both as someone who spent his entire life in the restaurant business, but also as someone who is sick-and-tired of unelected bureaucrats acting as if they have any right to tell law-abiding, hardworking, God fearing Americans what to do in their own kitchens. With people like these, we never would have made it out of the caves; they would have stomped on the fires. While the Governor’s budget is clearly a big middle finger to Washington, no doubt it will provide real relief in an environment where we’re having to deal with Joe Biden’s inflation crisis.” 

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis

Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).