Florida TaxWatch Flags $830 Million in ‘Budget Turkeys’ in State Spending
Florida TaxWatch has identified $830 million in what it terms "budget turkeys" within the 2026-27 state budget. These are projects, including numerous water and local park initiatives, that were funded without undergoing the usual competitive review processes. The watchdog group…
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 8, 2026 —
Florida TaxWatch Flags $830 Million in ‘Budget Turkeys’ in State Spending
Florida TaxWatch has identified approximately $830 million in state budget appropriations that it categorizes as “budget turkeys.” These funds, included in the 2026-27 state budget, were allocated to projects without the standard competitive review processes typically required for such funding.
The watchdog organization highlighted that these appropriations encompass a range of initiatives, including numerous water projects and local park developments. Florida TaxWatch is calling on Governor Ron DeSantis to thoroughly review these budget items. The group suggests this scrutiny is necessary to identify and eliminate potential instances of wasteful spending.
In its analysis, Florida TaxWatch pointed out a perceived inconsistency between the Legislature’s funding practices for these projects and its public criticisms of spending by local governments. The organization urges a focused examination of these specific appropriations to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Story summarized from the original created by Gabrielle Russon on floridapolitics.com, see more information here.
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