Pink Slip Rick group says Rick Scott isn’t announcing a budget, but his candidacy

Pink Slip Rick group says Rick Scott isn’t announcing a budget, but his candidacy

Submitted by Amy Ritter

     ORLANDO, FL — Statement from Florida Watch Action Executive Director Amy Ritter on Rick Scott’s budget proposal:

    “It is clear from Rick Scott’s posturing around his 2013 budget proposal that the governor has a PR problem and is desperate to be in the good graces of teachers, public employees’ and middle class families come 2014. This is not a budget unveiling, but a bloated campaign stump speech from a governor with anemic approval ratings.

    “Floridians have not forgotten about his $1.3 billion cut to public schools, or his three percent pay cut to all teachers, police officers, fire fighters, and public employees. And they have not forgotten about his $300 million cut to higher education. Floridians are well aware that the governor has been financially chipping away at our state’s school system, paychecks, and retirement for the past two years.

You cannot cut education funding and take home pay for these middle class families, shuffle the money around, and then announce a surplus and bonuses. It just doesn’t add up.”

    “Middle class families are getting tired of having their jobs, education, safety, and quality of life used as political footballs while Rick Scott looks to retool his image in anticipation of running for re-election.”