Governor Rick Scott is proposing a big investment in Florida's natural resources. Scott announced Monday that he plans to ask lawmakers for $1.7 billion in his budget proposal for the 2018-2019 fiscal year to help preserve and restore the state's environment. In the current fiscal year, $1.4 billlion is budgeted.
"As we've turned this economy around, we're able to make historic investments," Scott said Monday during a press conference held at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.
"We have the money, and we need to invest in the environment," he added.
The proposed funding includes $55 million for Florida's freshwater springs; $100 million for beach restoration; and $50 million each would go to state parks and natural land preservation through Florida Forever.
"All of these investments are going to make sure that our children and our grandchildren can enjoy the environment that we all live here for," Scott said.
Also included in the budget proposal is a record $355 million that would go toward Everglades restoration. Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg said that projects to get clean water flowing there are crucial to the health of the wetlands.
"If members of the legislature want to see projects finished, finished on time without any more delay, it takes money," Eikenberg said.
Scott hopes that paying to preserve Florida's natural resources will be the key to preserving the state's tourist economy.
"The goal is to keep this economy going, and keep making sure we invest dollars where we continue to improve this environment," he said.
The next legislative session begins in January.
