Gov. Rick Scott within hours of being sworn-in signed four executive orders, one of which has resulted in the halting of hundreds of million of dollars in contracts across the state of Florida.
According to documents released by the governor’s office, almost $500 million in road projects have been put on hold, the News Service of Florida reports.
Concerns are mounting that Scott’s three-month freeze on contracts, many impacting small businesses, are severely threatening thousands of existing jobs and could further worsen job growth.
Rep. Hazelle Rogers (D-Lauderdale Lakes), on behalf of House Democratic Caucus members, raised alarm bells today, expressing “very serious concerns”, pointing out that retaining jobs for Floridians is the top priority.
Even Senate President Mike Haridopolos, while prepared to cut Scott some slack, conceded his action runs counter to the prevalent GOP philosophy, wherein businesses want predictability and consistency from government.
As one who has little understanding of how government works, Scott has a steep learning curve and that’s understood. But, as someone who wants to be known as the “Jobs Governor”, it would suit Mr. Scott to move with dispatch to resolve the freeze on contracts, so as not to further undermine an already precarious job situation.
Furthermore, someone may wish to explain to Mr. Scott the nexus between spending in the transportation sector and its impact on the wider economy.
