Did Governor Ron DeSantis Drop $346 Million of Fed Money Just to Make A Point?
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has drawn attention and speculation with his recent line-item vetoes of two federal block grants, worth a combined $29 million. The Capitolist reports that what may have appeared as inconsequential moves, however, have set in motion Florida’s withdrawal from a program that could have resulted in an additional $346 million returned to Florida citizens through a rebate program.
Although the governor’s office did not provide a specific rationale for the vetoes, political insiders view it as a calculated strategy to bolster DeSantis’s presidential campaign … by making a strong statement rejecting further federal funding from the Biden Administration.
The vetoed line items, 1463A and 1463B, were federal block grants that did not require any state expenditures. Line item 1463A, a $24 million grant, aimed to upgrade rural wastewater motors and improve pumping infrastructure in smaller counties.
Line item 1463B, a $5 million grant, intended to establish the necessary planning and accountability infrastructure for a larger federal grant targeting energy efficiency across all states. However, DeSantis’s veto of line item 1463B resulted in Florida losing eligibility for two larger federal grants, valued at $173 million each, totaling $346 million.
The funds were set to be administered by the Florida Department of Energy under Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, with plans to channel the money into consumer-oriented programs like homeowner rebates for investments in smart-home thermostats and energy-efficient appliances, directly benefiting Florida taxpayers.
That’s not all, though.
DeSantis was clear about what he loved and hated while doing his vetoes (you can find the complete list here). He cut funding for a gun violence prevention program just as the permit-less carry bill takes effect July 1. He also cut $160,000 in funding for the 1619 Fest, a Black History Month celebration in Orlando, and then $200,000 for Florida’s Black Music Legacy, a project that highlights Florida’s contributions to Black music.
The presidential hopeful also axed the $6.4 million budget for repairing or renovating 21 public broadcasting stations across the state. He also vetoed a number of projects for the Sarasota district allegedly because the district’s representative endorsed Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election.
Not surprisingly, the governor did not veto the $12 million to put migrants on flights away from Florida, as well as the $10 million that’s been allocated to different agencies that are expected to defend his administration from whatever lawsuits that will question his policies.
Information for this story was found via The Capitolist, MSNBC, The Tamba Bay Times, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
