DeSantis increases HBCU funding by $10 million in upcoming budget for ‘facility hardening’

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis proposed increasing funding in the upcoming 2024-2025 “Focus on Florida’s Future” budget by $10 million for “facility hardening” at Florida’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs.

A press release stated that $152 million will go to the state’s four HBCUs, including $10 million for “facility hardening to prevent anyone from targeting HBCUs with violence.”

Last year’s “Framework for Freedom Budget” provided $142 million in funding.

The following universities will receive the same amount as last year: Bethune-Cookman University ($17 million for operating funds), and Edward Waters University ($7.5 million in operating funds).

Funding for Florida Memorial University decreased from $7.5 million to $7 million and Florida A&M University funding increased from $110 million to $110.5 million.

For colleges and universities, the governor’s budget recommended $1.7 billion for the Florida College System. $3.7 billion is projected for the State University System.

An additional $150 million is expected for recruitment and retention of quality faculty at state colleges and universities.

Florida’s Voice previously reported the budget recommends $10 million for “enhanced security measures” at Jewish Day Schools along with $1.35 million for the Florida Holocaust Museum.

Florida lawmakers held a special session in November to bolster security at Jewish day schools and other institutions prone to potential violence.

For full budget highlights, click here.