JUNO BEACH, Fla.— Governor Ron DeSantis announced updates on Florida’s efforts to restore the Everglades and enhance the supply and quality of the state’s water resources, unveiling key budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-26. The Governor also highlighted Florida’s commitment to work with the incoming Trump Administration to accelerate the completion of critical Everglades restoration projects by garnering authority over the U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in an effort designed to save both time and taxpayer dollars.

“I’m proud to keep advancing these efforts in Everglades restoration and water quality, which will have lasting benefits to our state for years to come,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I promised to leave Florida better than we found it, and we’re keeping that promise for future generations.”

“Floridians understand the Everglades better than anyone else. We live, work and recreate here, and we are committed to the land that sustains this,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Florida has the experience, urgency and determination to get the job done. We have proven our ability to manage restoration projects efficiently.” Continue reading →

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.— Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida has surpassed 500,000 students participating in Florida’s school choice scholarship program. Additionally, more than 30,000 students are participating in the New Worlds Scholarship Accounts Program, with an additional 18,000 students utilizing the transportation stipend created by House Bill 1 (2023).

“Florida is the number one state for education because of our commitment to providing every student with the option that works best for them,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I am proud that we have enabled over 500,000 students to access a high-quality education that fits their individual needs.”

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to lead the way in providing the best educational opportunities for every student.,” said Florida Department of Education Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “I am proud to see how many Florida families we are helping through school choice programs.”   Continue reading →

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis established the Hope Florida Office within the Executive Office of the Governor to oversee and administer the growing Hope Florida Pathway to Prosperity Initiative. Established in 2021, Hope Florida is a first-of-its-kind initiative that maximizes support from community partners outside government—predominantly non-profits, faith-based organizations, and private sector business partners. Utilizing a personalized navigation model, Floridians seeking government assistance are provided a Hope Navigator who utilizes those aforementioned entities to meet immediate needs and guide them on a Pathway to economic self-sufficiency. In fact, Hope Florida has already led to more than 30,000 Floridians decreasing or eliminating reliance on public assistance. Estimates show that Hope Florida could save taxpayers nearly $1 billion dollars over the next 10 years. Under the Hope Florida model, government serves as a convener and collaborator between good people who need help and good people, outside of government, who are willing to help. Government is uniquely positioned to make the connection and thus reduce its role in assisting people in need, while also providing preventative navigation that aims to prevent Floridians from reentering or becoming dependent on the “government system.”  Continue reading →