GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE PRESS RELEASE:

TALLAHASSEE –

As part of his ongoing focus on growing Florida’s economy through job retention and creation, workforce training and economic development, Governor Charlie Crist today addressed Florida business leaders on the future of the state’s economy at the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s Capitol Days. The Governor highlighted his job-creating budget priorities and emphasized the importance of developing a world-class workforce.

“Collaboration among Florida’s talent supply chain, which includes educators and business leaders like the Florida Chamber of Commerce, is crucial for the prosperity of tomorrow’s knowledge-based economy,” said Governor Crist. “While we focus on attracting innovative companies to our state, we must also continue to prioritize local business needs like tax relief and the development of our workforce.”

Governor Crist reiterated budget strategies for growing jobs, businesses and economic opportunities through $100 million in tax relief to families and businesses. These proposals include a reduction to the corporate income tax rate by one percent on the first million dollars of a corporation’s income, a 10-day Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, and help for businesses by delaying the increase in unemployment taxes. The Governor has recommended a $9.7-billion investment in economic development, which includes infrastructure, workforce development and incentives for small businesses.

Governor Crist also emphasized his commitment to growing the state’s innovation economy, ensuring a competitive business climate, building a world-class workforce, and establishing Florida as a pre-eminent global trade hub. He also highlighted his economic budget priorities which include $307.5 million for targeted economic development initiatives and incentives. The Governor’s budget recommendations will increase Florida’s competitiveness in key business sectors, including information technology, aviation and aerospace, defense, biotechnology, tourism, sports, and film and entertainment through the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development.

For more information on the Governor’s economic priorities, go to Incentives to Build Florida’s Innovation Economy and Bold Job-Growth Strategies.