Gov. DeSantis urges pocketbook issues in state of the state address | FOX 35 Orlando
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Gov. DeSantis urges pocketbook issues in state of the state address

By and
Published  March 4, 2025 10:52am EST
Ron DeSantis
FOX 13 News

The Brief

    • Gov. Ron DeSantis gave the annual State of the State Speech on Tuesday in Tallahassee.
    • This address always happens as the regular legislative session gets underway.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave the annual State of the State Speech on Tuesday in Tallahassee as the regular legislative session gets underway.

Big picture view:

The governor focused on taxes and the economy during his "State of the State," address, in hopes of kick-starting legislators as they begin their two-month session.

"We must continue to be a friend to the taxpayer," the governor said.

In his view, the state should expand grants for those storm-proofing their homes, expand tax holidays for boaters and gun buyers, eliminate taxes on business rent and potentially eliminate property taxes.

"You still have to write a check to the government every year just for the privilege of living on your own private property," the governor said. "Is the property yours, or are you just renting it from the government?"

That has easily become the most controversial part of the governor's 2025 agenda.

Republican legislators are promising to study it, while Democrats are promising to vilify it. They ask how vital public services, like police, will be paid for.

Gov. Ron DeSantis gave the annual State of the State Speech on Tuesday in Tallahassee.

"It's like he wants them to exist on a diet of just candy," said State Rep. Fentrice Driskell (D-Minority Leader). "Candy tastes good. Candy looks good, but what looks good and tastes good isn't always good for you."

And what to do about Florida's most famous problem, home insurance?

The governor insists the addition of 11 new companies to the market is stabilizing the 75 percent price over the last five years.

But in his speech, House Speaker Daniel Perez blasted the insurance companies for input they gave during reforms made two years ago, saying subpoenas are possible.

"We have since learned of reports in existence at the time, but not disclosed to the legislature, that may suggest some insurance companies were using accounting tricks to hide substantial profits, while telling us they were in a crisis."

With the cost of electricity, rent and food all up since the end of the pandemic, the governor admits cost of living prescriptions are tricky.

READ: Florida's legislative session begins this week. Here are some of the key bills filed in Tallahassee

All in all, giving a thumbs up, saying Florida is on a good path forward.

"We are proud of our state's accomplishments," DeSantis said. "While we recognize the work that lies ahead. Our rudder is set. Our compass is in hand. True North is our destination. We can and must continue to lead."

The governor also gave a shutout to his wife, Casey DeSantis, for her dedication to the Hope Florida Program, which has become a signature project across the state.

What's next:

The couple is looking into the possibility of Casey running for governor, and they are currently gauging support for the run.

The Source: Information for this story was gathered from the Governor's Office and previous FOX 13 News reports.

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