PRESS RELEASE May 30, 2000

TALLAHASSEE – “People like to get something for nothing – it’s a weakness we all share. When the day is over though, most of us realize there is no such thing as a free lunch. People ought to be very wary of politicians who tell them otherwise. “Fiscal discipline should be the main stay of Florida’s budget. What budget turkeys are about is trying to give constituents something for nothing. It takes fiscal discipline and statewide vision for the Governor to veto them. “Governor Bush’s veto message has demonstrated much needed fiscal restraint and good stewardship of Floridians’ tax dollars by ensuring the needs of all Floridians are met effectively and in an accountable manner. ”Over $500 million in TaxWatch identified turkeys have been vetoed by four governors’ administrations. This year, Governor Bush vetoed 206 out of 281, or 73%, of the turkeys identified by Florida TaxWatch. This represents $159 million out of $222 million, or 72% of TaxWatch’s budget turkeys.

Florida TaxWatch is a 20-year-old statewide, non-partisan, non-profit research institution supported by homeowners, small businesses, corporations, labor, individuals and philanthropic foundations. Florida TaxWatch is a public interest group dedicated to improving citizen understanding and government accountability.