Scott Defiant In Supreme Court Filing
TALLAHASSEE (CBS4) - Florida Governor Rick Scott met a noon deadline when he filed a stern response with the Florida Supreme Court after he was sued by two Florida legislators who are seeking to force Scott to accept the federal money for a high-speed rail line.
Scott's response gave insight into Scott's my-way-or-the-highway thinking and also showed a disdain for the Florida legislature. He said the two state senators asked the Supreme Court to step in after their "policy preferences have not prevailed in the political process."
However, Scott's statement disregards the fact that the high-speed rail line was passed by the political process and is supported by most businesses and groups. It's also received bi-partisan support from Florida's Congressional representation.
Scott maintained that he will not accept the federal funds because of his belief that Florida taxpayers may be on the hook for most of the money if certain goals aren't met.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Scott was wrong and has been working with leaders in Washington and Tallahassee to move forward with the plan with or without Scott's approval.
Governor Scott has until Friday to accept a revised plan for local management to absolve the state of liability.
