Governor Ron DeSantis’ "Florida Leads" Budget Builds on Previous Investments Applauded by Florida Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee

Proposed budget continues investments in Florida’s Election Systems, in assistance to Libraries, and for the protection of Florida’s Historical and Cultural Resources

Tallahassee, Fla. –

Today, Florida Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee applauded Governor Ron DeSantis’ "Florida Leads" budget for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Governor DeSantis’ Florida Leads budget makes key investments to continue Florida’s successful elections administration, to improve business efficiency, to support local libraries, and to preserve Florida’s history and culture.

Governor DeSantis’ proposed budget includes:

• $16.7 million to assist the Department of State and the local Supervisors of Elections to increase the security of Florida’s elections systems and administration,

• $11.5 million to ensure the continued preservation of Florida historical resources,

• $31.3 million in funding to support Florida’s libraries and library systems,

• $8.6 million to improve efficiency for Florida’s business community, and

• $6.8 million to support Florida’s museums and cultural programing.

Florida Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee said, “Accurate and fair elections are the cornerstone of any free society, and I am grateful to Governor DeSantis for ensuring that election security and integrity continue to be a high priority. These investments will ensure that Florida continues to be the benchmark for elections administration.  I am also grateful to the Governor for his continued support for Florida’s libraries, arts and culture organizations, and historic preservation sites across Florida.  These investments will ensure that current Floridians and future generations will have access to the resources that enhance quality of life in our local communities.”

Marion County Supervisor of Elections and President-Elect, Florida Supervisors of Elections, Wesley Wilcox said, “Governor DeSantis’ proposed budget for elections security signals his seriousness about protecting our elections and the voices of all Florida voters. We look forward to carrying the momentum from the successful 2020 election cycle into 2022. Florida’s Supervisors are grateful for Governor DeSantis’s recommendation, which will help to ensure we will continue to win the race against the prevailing threats to our elections.”

Malinda Horton, Executive Director of the Florida Association of Museums said, “Florida’s historical and cultural resources make our state a world-renowned destination. Governor DeSantis’ $6.8 million budget shows his continued support for preserving and protecting our state’s unique history while promoting cultural expression, so that our world class museums and galleries can be enjoyed by visitors for generations to come.”

Dr. Laura Spears, President of the Florida Library Association said, “Libraries are pillars in the communities they serve. We thank Governor DeSantis for his $31.3 million budget proposal to strengthen Florida’s libraries through the services we provide at no charge to our communities: enrichment programs for the underserved, abundant educational resources for learners of all ages, and collection offerings that open up the world for our patrons. The Governor understands the value of libraries, and his proposed budget will ensure their essential role as a hub for learning and community.”

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