Florida Governor DeSantis Vetoes Public Media, Lagoon, Brevard Schools Funding; Cuts $182M, Boosts Sheriff's Office, FAMU, FSU, TSC Projects

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed funding for public radio and television as part of the 2025 state budget, aligning with the Trump administration's prior call to defund public media. In addition to cutting public media funds, DeSantis vetoed allocations for lagoon projects and the expansion of Brevard Schools. However, the budget includes increased funding for the Sheriff's Office and port projects. The state budget also allocates millions of dollars for flood control, road improvements, and arts programs in Volusia and Flagler counties. Higher education institutions such as Florida A&M University (FAMU), Florida State University (FSU), and Tallahassee Community College (TSC) will receive over $200 million for various projects, although some vetoes were applied. A watchdog group praised DeSantis for eliminating $182 million in what it termed 'budget turkeys,' reflecting efforts to reduce unnecessary expenditures. Additionally, DeSantis vetoed a property tax study, a move that has drawn commentary regarding its rationale.