Florida budget may include salary increases for governor, cabinet, state judges

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Budget legislation by Rep. Tom Leek, R-Ormond Beach, could increase the salaries of the governor and executive cabinet, as well as district, circuit and county court judges.

In the bill, HB 5007, the governor’s salary, staring in the 2027-2028 fiscal year, could become equal to or greater than the current salary of Florida’s Supreme Court justices. The justices currently make $251,414, according to the state payroll system.

Additionally, the lieutenant governor, chief finical officer, attorney general and agriculture commissioner would be required to make at least 95% of what the governor makes.

District court of appeals judges would make at least 90% of what supreme court justices make, while circuit court judges and county court judges would make at least 80% and 75%, respectively.

Currently, Gov. Ron DeSantis earns $141,400.20 per year in compensation. The cabinet members each make $139,987.90

If the legislation passes, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and Attorney General Ashley Moody will be termed out by the time the increase in compensation begins.

DeSantis also cannot serve another consecutive term once he exits office in 2027.