Florida DUI Law Enforcement Agencies Concerned About Budget Cuts

Governor is asking all state agencies to pare their latest state budget requests.

The directors of the two largest law enforcement agencies in Florida have asked Gov. Charlie Crist to go lightly when cutting the budget of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. All state agencies are potentially affected by the Governor’s goal to pare back the state’s budget.

The heads of the Florida Police Chiefs Association and Florida Sheriff’s Association are urging robust funding for the FDLE, saying that a reduction in operating funds will jeopardize public safety. They cite the role of the state lab and FDLE field operations in all types of crime, including murders, drug smuggling and cases of driving under the influence in Florida. Local law enforcement officers echo the sentiment, expressing concern that an FDLE budget cut could impact their ability to combat and prosecute some crimes.

The FDLE has not yet submitted a legislative budget request for the upcoming fiscal period. Gov. Crist, who has a reputation of strong support for law enforcement, indicated that the input of the sheriffs and police chiefs will be considered during the budget process.

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