As Florida’s Governor prepares to sign the legislature’s approved $117 billion budget, an independent watchdog group has raised concerns over a record number of appropriation projects. The annual Budget Turkey Watch Report, released by Florida TaxWatch, identifies 450 projects worth nearly $855 million as potential “budget turkeys.”
The term “budget turkey” refers to items added to the state budget without proper review or justification, often bypassing the normal vetting process. This year’s report highlights that, on average, each member of the legislature secured ten member projects worth an average of more than $17 million each.
Jeff Kottkamp, former Lieutenant Governor and current General Counsel for Florida TaxWatch, emphasizes that the report does not question the merit or need of these projects. Instead, it calls for greater accountability and transparency in the budgeting process. “This kind of spending is not sustainable,” Kottkamp warns, noting that Florida’s current revenue growth and budget reserves may not last.
Kottkamp’s concerns are echoed by Kurt Wenner, Senior Vice President of Research at Florida TaxWatch. Wenner points out that the number of member projects has nearly tripled over the last eight years, indicating a growing trend of circumventing traditional budgetary scrutiny.
Florida TaxWatch argues that many of these projects, while potentially beneficial, should undergo the same rigorous review as other budget items to ensure fiscal responsibility. The watchdog group’s report aims to promote a more transparent and accountable budget process, urging lawmakers to adhere to established protocols and avoid unnecessary or poorly vetted expenditures.
As the Governor reviews the budget, the spotlight remains on these flagged projects, with taxpayers and advocates watching closely to see how many, if any, will be vetoed. The Governor’s decision will signal his stance on fiscal responsibility and transparency in the state’s budgeting process.
