Florida State University President John Thrasher says he’s feeling optimistic the state's two legislative chambers can reach a budget deal favorable to universities. That’s because lawmakers are choosing to go with the Senate’s proposal to invest more money into higher education, rather than the House’s plan for cuts.
Thrasher says despite some criticism the process is working as it should.
“Every two years its different personalities, different folks. You’ve got to let the process work. Two days ago we were in a ditch now we’re out the ditch. That’s the way the process works," he says.
This past weekend it appeared talks were at a stand-still and House and Senate leaders traded angry words at each other. But by Tuesday it appeared negotiations were back on. Talks continued into Wednesday.
Thrasher is a former lawmaker and House Speaker. He says he's still watching House proposals that would curb how university direct-support organizations spend and raise money for the schools, while also requiring them to make their finances public.
Lawmakers have until May 2nd to present a final plan if the legislature is going to adjourn on time.
