Secretary of State Cord Byrd praises Governor Ron DeSantis’ Floridians First Budget for preserving Florida’s history and cultural heritage for future generations
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd praised Governor Ron DeSantis’ Floridians First Budget, emphasizing the state’s renewed focus on preserving Florida’s rich history and cultural heritage for generations to come. The budget, which outlines funding priorities for Fiscal Year 2026-27, includes significant investments in historic properties, museums, libraries, arts programs, and election integrity initiatives.
“Under the Floridians First Budget, Floridians of all generations will have more opportunities to explore and discover our state’s rich history and heritage–right in time for America’s Semiquincentennial,” Byrd said. “Florida has played an impactful role in the American Experiment since the beginning. From St. Augustine to the Space Race, to establishing first-of-its-kind election integrity standards, Florida has and continues to shape and influence America’s story. This budget invests in maintaining that momentum to ensure the Florida we know today is preserved for tomorrow.”
Investing in Historic Properties and Museums
A central component of the Floridians First Budget is the preservation of Florida’s historic landmarks and cultural institutions. The plan includes $10 million to renovate and reopen the Museum of Florida History. The funding will support refreshed exhibits, updated audiovisual equipment, and interactive features designed to engage schoolchildren and the broader public. These enhancements aim to create a more immersive experience, connecting visitors with the state’s history from its earliest days to the modern era.
In addition, the budget allocates $4 million in recurring funds to accelerate the preservation and maintenance of historic properties across the state. Priority will be given to iconic coastal properties and historic lighthouses, ensuring Florida’s seafaring legacy is protected for future generations. Secretary Byrd emphasized that these investments will allow families to experience the Florida of yesterday and today, reinforcing the state’s role in shaping the nation’s story.
The Floridians First Budget also dedicates $500,000 to doubling the annual upload capacity of Florida Memory, the state’s official photographic archive. This funding will allow for the addition of vintage advertisements, creative trademarks, and folklore, further enriching the state’s digital historical resources.
Promoting Arts, Culture, and Classical Education
In addition to historic preservation, the budget provides $5 million for grants promoting classical arts and culture, with awards distributed under newly established criteria to encourage meaningful cultural programming. These grants are intended to support the arts statewide while prioritizing projects that engage communities and highlight Florida’s artistic heritage.
Another significant investment includes $21 million in grants for locally managed community libraries. Funds are intended to support new programming and content that promote classical literature, history, philosophy, and the foundational principles of Western civilization—concepts Secretary Byrd notes were instrumental in shaping the formation of the United States. By enhancing library resources and programming, the state aims to encourage civic literacy and foster a deeper understanding of Florida’s historical and cultural contributions.
Strengthening Election Integrity
The Floridians First Budget also provides $4.5 million in additional funding to support election integrity efforts across the state. This investment enables local supervisors of elections to conduct audits covering 100 percent of votes cast, ensuring accuracy and public confidence in the electoral process. Byrd highlighted that these efforts are part of Florida’s ongoing commitment to secure, transparent, and reliable elections.
About the Florida Department of State
The Florida Department of State, established under the state’s 1838 Constitution as the Office of the Secretary of State, serves as the custodian of the Great Seal, corporate filings, and the Laws of Florida. Today, the Department oversees election integrity, preserves historical and cultural heritage, administers arts and cultural programming, and maintains the Florida State Archives and the Museum of Florida History. Additionally, the Department manages several historic properties and serves as the lead agency for America250FL, Florida’s observance of America’s Semiquincentennial.
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Through these budgetary initiatives, Secretary Byrd emphasizes that the Floridians First Budget reflects a statewide commitment to preserving history, celebrating culture, and strengthening civic institutions. By investing in museums, libraries, historic sites, and election security, the state is working to ensure that Floridians today—and in the generations to come—can explore, learn from, and contribute to the rich heritage that has shaped both the state and the nation.
