John Snyder unveils IT budget at House subcommittee meeting

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. 2/10/23-Rep. John Snyder, R-Stuart, second from left, during a news conference on Special Session B bills, Friday at the Capitol in Tallahassee. COLIN HACKLEY PHOTO

Palm City Republican Rep. John Snyder unveiled his recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Information Technology Budget to the House Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee Wednesday, which is a priority of the Legislature.

“For my recommended 2025-2026 fiscal budget, I believe this is one that is responsible and ensures that the projects we support are set up for success and deliver lasting value to the people of Florida,” Snyder said.

Snyder noted that during committee discussions, it was revealed that some IT projects that are underway had been experiencing setbacks.

“It is critical that we address them directly in these recommendations,” Snyder said. “This budget reflects a principled approach to placing significant emphasis on scrutinizing new projects and investments in technology and carefully considering our funding choices while recognizing that funding alone does not guarantee success. This budget prioritizes the work already underway, ensuring it’s completed efficiently and effectively, rather than starting new work without the strategic planning we need to responsibly invest taxpayer dollars.”

The proposed recommendation for Information Technology totaled $528 million — $146.5 million from the General Revenue Fund and $382.2 million in Trust Funds.

Snyder said the budget reflects an approximate 13% decrease from last year’s IT budget recommendations. Of the total recommended funding of $528 million, approximately 52% is allocated to large, complex projects.

“A flare system replacement, known as the PALM Project, is a monumental undertaking for our state that touches all 35 of our state agencies,” Snyder said. “We’ve learned in our discussions the delays and project timelines and a need for closer attention on agency readiness efforts to ensure a timely and smooth integration.”

Snyder recommended fully funding the agencies’ project related costs of $46.7 million, and $66.2 million for agencies work to continue configuring their systems for a successful integration into the new PALM system.

“Similarly, I am recommending $161.9 million in funding for the FX program at the Agency for Health Care Administration, while also acknowledging that there are gaps that must be addressed if we are to ensure its long-term success,” Snyder said. “I am also recommending $31.4 million for the continued modernization of the Child Support Automated Management System or CAMS Program with the Department of Revenue, which continues to proceed on schedule and within budget.”

Snyder said committee members have had in-depth discussions regarding the I-connect system at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, and noted he and the committee are committed to developing a thoughtful, clear, and actionable pathway forward to deliver the services and outcomes to Florida’s most vulnerable constituents.

“These recommendations will be provided to the Budget Committee for consideration and possible inclusion in the proposed House Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26,” Snyder said. “I want to thank my fellow committee members for your continued engagement and thoughtful contributions and look forward to our work as we shift into additional policy discussions in the coming weeks.”