WILDWOOD, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed Florida’s $115.1 billion state budget into law Monday morning during a press conference in Sumter County, highlighting major tax cuts, investments in education and a strong financial reserve as key elements of what he called a “responsible” and “values-driven” spending plan.
The governor held an event for the budget signing at Rohan Regional Recreation Center in Wildwood.
The budget includes more than $1.5 billion in tax relief for Florida families and businesses, along with a record $1.25 billion investment in school safety, mental health services, and teacher pay increases. Environmental funding also takes center stage, with nearly $1.6 billion earmarked for Everglades restoration and statewide water quality projects.
In addition to education and infrastructure spending, DeSantis set aside hundreds of millions of dollars for emergency management. That includes funding for the state-run migrant detention center currently under construction in South Florida, a facility that has drawn growing criticism from environmental advocates, tribal leaders, and immigrant rights groups.
During Monday’s event, DeSantis directly addressed what opponents have dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” located in a remote section of the Everglades. He said the project is necessary given what he views as federal inaction on border security.
“I spoke with the president this weekend,” DeSantis said. “Florida shouldn’t be the only one in this fight. We’re doing what voters have demanded for many years, secure the border, protect our communities, and enforce the law.”
Environmental groups have filed lawsuits against the detention site, arguing it threatens protected wetlands and sacred tribal lands. Critics have also called for a federal investigation into the permitting process and the use of emergency powers to expedite construction.
Despite the controversy, DeSantis stood firm on his administration’s approach, saying the budget reflects “core Florida values” and will help prepare the state for long-term growth and security.
The new fiscal year budget takes effect July 1.