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Governor Wants More Money for Environment, Remains Vague on Climate Change


August 6, 2014 | WMFE, Orlando - Gov. Rick Scott says he's making the environment a priority for 2015 as he continues his re-election campaign. But Scott remained vague on climate change Wednesday at a news conference at Wekiwa Springs State Park.

The governor wants to put $1 billion toward protecting Florida's waters. Half would go toward alternative water sources, and the other half toward springs.

When asked whether climate change is a problem for Florida, however, Scott had this to say:

"I don't think I'm qualified to make that decision. What I'm qualified to do is solve problems, and that's what I've done. I've focused on, tell me the issue and I've done my best to solve it, whether it's the Everglades, whether it's the Keys, whether it's the Indian River Lagoon, whether it's the springs. That's what I've focused on."

Scott says he plans to meet with a group of scientists who are pressing him on the issue.

He's previously said he doesn't believe humans are capable of altering the climate.

The governor's agenda also includes Everglades restoration and penalties for polluters.

Lee Constantine worked on environmental and water issues as a Republican in the Legislature for nearly 20 years. He says the environment is an economic issue.

"If we lose that reality and the perception that Florida is not the beautiful place that it is, and we're not protecting those resources, why would anyone else move here?"

Constantine says Scott is focusing on the environment now that joblessness is improving. 

 

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