Governor Rick Scott will propose a $ 1.2 billion boost to education spending for the next fiscal year. He'll release his budget plan Thursday, but he gave reporters a preview today at the Associated Press Legislative Planning Day at the Capitol.
"The budget I announce tomorrow will include an increase of $1.2 billion dollars in funding for K-12 public schools. That's right", said Scott.
Scott also has proposed a $2,500 raise for full-time teachers. That's after cutting K-12 spending by $1.3 billion two years ago and adding $1 billion back last year.
Legislative leaders were cautious. House Speaker Will Weatherford said there may be a budget surplus, but not enough for comfort.
"We do have more revenue, but let me be clear: our budget surplus is breathing room", Weatherford said. "It's not enough room to put your feet up on the couch."
Senate President Don Gaetz said Florida should see what Congress does about federal spending before making any decisions about the state budget surplus.