TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (May 6, 2013) – State lawmakers have shown strong support for Florida’s aerospace industry in the 2013 Legislative Session by renewing Space Florida’s $10 million operating and business development budget (including the second year of $4 million in recurring funds). This demonstrates that the ongoing, proactive development of the dynamic aerospace industry in our state is a top priority.
In addition to the organization’s operating and business development budget, the Florida legislature also approved the following items for 2014:
* $7 million for Space Florida’s financing fund requirements for new and expanding aerospace infrastructure statewide
* $1.5 million for space tourism marketing (new)
* $1 million to foster collaborative aerospace research, development and commercialization of projects through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor of the State of Israel (new) Additionally, the following Bill was passed during the 2013 Session:
* Removal of Lifetime Caps on QTI/QDSC Tax Refund, enabling companies that have existing jobs to Florida the opportunity to continue to benefit through additional job growth (HB4013, sponsored by Representative Santiago and Senator Hukill) “The funding of Space Florida’s financing request will allow for significant leveraging of private funds to continue to bolster Florida’s aerospace industry,” said Space Florida President and CEO Frank DiBello. “We are thankful for the continued leadership of the Florida Legislature, and for all of their tireless work.”
Space Florida would like to thank key contributors to the 2014 budget including: President Gaetz and Speaker Weatherford, full appropriations chairs Senator Negron and Representative McKeel, Speaker Designate Steve Crisafulli and incoming Senate President Andy Gardiner.
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About Space Florida: Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as a global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s spaceport authority and aerospace development organization, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. www.spaceflorida.gov
