Lawmakers are giving Gov. Ron DeSantis the power to probe local governments for overspending or fraud and for supporting DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives.
One of the final provisions finalized late in the budget talks this week allows the Office of Policy and Budget (OPB) within DeSantis’ Executive Office to investigate local government “functions, procedures, and policies” involving misspending and mismanagement of taxpayer money, DEI and redundant functions.
Local governments unwilling to provide records or employee access to OPB’s requests would face $1,000 daily fines.
The OPB can review personnel costs, administrative costs, contracts, programs, grants and more, according to the new policy. It appears many of these documents, however, are likely public records that anyone can request.
As part of its investigation, the OPB would want access to local governments employees familiar with the issues and data systems “subject to appropriate security considerations.”
“Nothing in this section shall be construed to require access to records that are confidential under federal or state laws,” the initiative read.
After reviewing local governments, the OPB will write a summary, list the evidence of any problems found and offer recommendations how to improve local government. The information will be published in a report sent by Jan. 13 to DeSantis, the state’s chief financial officer, the Senate president and House Speaker.
Normally, the OPB is responsible for giving “coordinated planning, policy development, budgeting and evaluation in support of the Governor, State agencies and State Legislature,” according to the agency’s website.
The OPB’s local government oversight initiative expires July 1, 2026.
Lawmakers are scheduled to vote on the budget Monday.
Florida Politics and other media outlets have reported on overspending concerns in local government — which are tied directly to DeSantis’ appointees who left behind budget deficits in their offices when they left.
Glen Gilzean, the DeSantis-appointed Orange County Elections Supervisor, faced accusations of inappropriately giving millions of dollars of grants away to community groups.
And the new Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrrell said her predecessor, DeSantis-appointed Andrew Bain, paid large payouts to staff.
–Gabrielle Russon, Florida Politics
You got conned says
Haha yeah it’s diversity that’s the problem not a bunch of Nazi conmen enriching themselves at the cost of public services! You know racist ron will be out for white supremacy!
Linda says
Yeah there was Medicare settlement money where they screwed over Floriduh Medicare recipients and that money magically went to Ron’s wife’s company? Sounds like a lot of fraud ! Lock the fascist up before they come for you!
Jackson says
Florida Governor is a disgrace.
DEI is one of the most successful initiatives included in our companies culture. And DEI is not what the lies on the right are telling.
When done right you will get the most competitive workforce by selecting the best considering all ethical majority and minority resources.
Ray says
Great!
Deborah Coffey says
Of course, because all Republicans know the power of hate, threats, and bullying.
Bo Peep says
Time to get Nervous isn’t it? Take a look around over here Gov!
Me says
Great let them investigate him and his wife on the million dollars his wife took or his he going to throw that under the carpet?