Senator Gary Siplin(D) fearlessly conquered one of the most challenging bouts in his legislative career by delivering additional education funds from a source that everyone thought would be impossible- SunRail. Siplin valiantly fought for education and emerged victorious. The Florida Legislature in an unprecedented decision agreed to redistribute $120 million dollars from the Department of Transportation Trust Fund that was designated for Sun Rail to fund education for Florida students.
“As I said all along, we must adequately fund education first. The Florida legislature agreed with me by removing $120 million from the Department of Transportation budget to fund education, social services and other pressing areas to meet the immediate needs of our citizens.” stated Senator Siplin.
Although Siplin endured much opposition and steady resistance from elected officials, business opportunists and community leaders, he remained firm and unyielding to his commitment to adequately fund education. Siplin, a firm believer that the right to a public education is the great equalizer, is the vice chair of Education pre-k-12 appropriations committee. Throughout his senatorial career he has made education a chief priority and refused to let his focus be dismantled by the SunRail project.
