Ed Hooper

Legislative leaders failed to resolve disagreements on school voucher budgeting and accounting proposals, leaving key reforms unaddressed. The proposed education budget includes a $150 per-student funding increase but did not adopt measures to separate voucher funds from public school funding or improve accountability. A state audit highlighted issues with unaccounted funds and recommended stricter oversight.

Leaders from New College of Florida and the University of South Florida support a planned land transfer where New College will assume full liability for USF’s Sarasota-Manatee campus by December 31, 2026. The agreement, part of budget negotiations, drops a $20 million funding transfer to New College, though both institutions emphasize collaboration and student benefits. New College aims to expand its campus footprint, having previously sought the Ringling Museum and federal airport land.

Florida legislators finalized an $115 billion fiscal year 2026-27 budget including $4 million in compensation for the Groveland Four, environmental funding for Everglades restoration, and $75 million to sustain an AIDS drug program. The agreement resolved disputes over funding levels and program restrictions, with negotiators describing it as a compromise.

Florida legislators have not agreed on the fiscal year 2025-26 budget, delaying decisions on funding for schools, healthcare for the poor, and Everglades restoration. House Speaker Danny Perez and Senate President Ben Albritton have not provided updates, and budget chairs Sen. Ed Hooper and Rep. Lawrence McClure have not held public meetings, raising concerns about meeting the May 29 deadline.