Florida will be unable to compete with rival US destinations now its funding has been severely cut in the state’s budget, politicians have been warned.
As expected, Florida lawmakers have passed a budget that allows a big funding cut for Visit Florida, giving it just $25 million, 67% less than the previous year.
Florida Republican Governor Rick Scott, who wanted four times the amount, is now left in the predicament of whether to grudgingly pass or veto it.
Scott had campaigned tirelessly for $100 million in funding for the agency.
In addition to the allowance being slashed, there are stringent disclosure conditions over how the money should be spent.
The extra scrutiny on Visit Florida was sparked after it was found the tourist board had failed to disclose a $1 million payment to Miami rapper Pitbull for a tourism marketing campaign.
Since then there has been strong opposition to the agency from some lawmakers who wanted to see it disbanded for good and an end to the culture of ‘corporate welfare.’
Gil Langley, chairman of the Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, said: "With only $25 million dedicated to promoting our state, there’s no way Florida can stay on the same playing field as states like California.
"Not to mention, Visit Florida’s efforts are what keeps tourists from flying over Florida to Mexico, the Bahamas and now Cuba."
