Lawrence McClure
Coverage of Lawrence McClure in the Nexus archive.
- $115B state budget finalized over Memorial Day weekend
Florida's Legislature finalized a $115 billion Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget after missing its deadline for the second consecutive year. The budget includes a $150 million tax relief package with exemptions for hurricane-resistant windows/doors and gun accessories like silencers, though gas tax exemptions were excluded despite prior advocacy. Senate President Ben Albritton faced opposition from the NRA over potential changes to suppressor tax exemptions.
- Eleventh hour budget deal includes $4M compensation for ‘Groveland Four’
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.
- What’s going on: The Florida fiscal year 2026-27 budget and the special session
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.