GIFFORDS: DeSantis Veto of Violence Intervention Funding Will Cost Lives

Miami, FL-  Today, GIFFORDS, the gun violence prevention organization founded by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, once again denounced Governor Ron DeSantis’s shocking display of disregard for public safety, after his recent veto of $5 million earmarked for Community Violence Intervention in this year’s state budget. 

Samantha Barrios, GIFFORDS Florida State Director:
“Governor DeSantis betrayed Florida—again. Floridians want the government to keep their families safe, but he has shown time and time again that he just doesn’t care. There is no justification for eliminating funding for violence intervention and prevention strategies proven to save lives. This veto means that more of our neighbors will be scarred by the cruel reality of gun violence—particularly in Black and Hispanic communities. This backward approach to governing is exactly why gun violence has gone up on DeSantis’s watch.”

Governor DeSantis has not only failed to prioritize the urgent need for effective measures against escalating violence but has also shown an alarming pattern of ignoring pleas for action on gun safety reforms that could undoubtedly save countless lives within the state. It is worth noting that this lifesaving funding vetoed by Governor DeSantis received bipartisan support from the Republican supermajority in the Legislature. This decision is a stark reminder of Governor DeSantis’ willingness to prioritize political posturing over the safety and security of Florida’s families.

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