News & Updates

Newly Signed State Budget Includes $250 Million for Seaport Relief

June 2, 2021

Florida’s 15 deep water seaports will soon see critical COVID-related financial relief, thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis’ signing of the 2021-2022 state budget.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant and ongoing economic impacts to Florida’s seaports, and this important investment will help ensure Florida’s ports continue to deliver necessities to businesses and consumers,” said Michael Rubin, Interim President and CEO, Florida Ports Council.

At Governor DeSantis’ recommendation, and with the support of Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin Thibault, the Florida Legislature allocated $250 million in federal stimulus to help shore up Florida’s seaport industry. Florida has lost an estimated 169,000 jobs and nearly $23 billion in economic activity through 2020 as a result of cruise ships being sidelined for 14 months.

“On behalf of Florida’s 15 deep water seaports, we thank Governor DeSantis, Secretary Thibault, Senate President Wilson Simpson and House Speaker Chris Sprowls for their leadership,” Rubin added.