The Florida Legislature closed its 60-day legislative session on May 3, 2013 with many issues topping its agenda this year, including healthcare, economic incentives, education, environmental stewardship and election reform.
The Governor, the Senate President and the Speaker of the House made an early commitment to education and substantiated their rhetoric with action. Students too, were able to take an active role in advocating for specific issues through the Florida Student Association’s Rally in Tally and Gator Day. Between these two events, nearly 100 UF students traveled to Tallahassee to voice their support for the University of Florida during this legislative session.
Students will notice many improvements from last year’s budget. First, the Legislature restored the $300 million the cut from the State University System’s budget. The state also awarded $15 million for the University of Florida to become a top 10 institution. Additionally, the legislature approved a 3% increase in Bright Futures awards.
Consequently, the Legislature did pass a 3% tuition increase for all State University System institutions. Following input from student leaders about concern over increased student debt however, Governor Scott exercised his constitutional power and vetoed the tuition increase.
All in all, this was a great year to be a student in the state of Florida. Our success can be attributed to the cooperation and teamwork of all parties involved. Students, administrators, and elected officials rallied together around the Aim Higher initiative that framed higher education as an investment, not an expense.
I am glad to have played a part in this outstanding year for Higher Education. I look forward to carrying the momentum we established this session into the 2014 legislative session.
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