Statement Concerning Initial Budget Allocations -- House Democratic Leader Franklin Sands

House Democratic Leader Franklin Sands today offered the following statement concerning House Speaker Larry Cretul’s “Initial Budget Allocations” memorandum to members of the Florida House of Representatives:

“Speaker Cretul is to be commended for outlining allocation strategies and guiding principles that House budget committees can follow as they draft a new state spending plan for Florida.

“I am hopeful that his No. 1 guiding principle of `no new or increased fees or taxes’ will result in what Florida House Democrats’ support: real and immediate relief to the people who drive Florida’s economy. Protecting small businesses and the middle class during these tough economic times is a high priority for Florida House Democratic Caucus members.

“Today, I urge House Republican leaders to address Speaker Cretul’s goal by giving full consideration to proposed legislation that would close unnecessary tax loopholes, as well as bills that would clamp down on fraud and abuse in state spending.

“Florida House Democrats are proud to have introduced several bills that will promote a better, brighter financial future for Florida, and which deserve full consideration during the 2010 legislative session. Florida House Democrats stand ready to work with willing Republican partners to advance legislation to improve the lives of Floridians.”