How Childcare Costs Impact Florida’s Economy How Childcare Costs Impact Florida’s Economy

How Childcare Costs Impact Florida’s Economy

/ Categories: Research, Economic Development

The impact of childcare, as the data suggest, is prominent on Florida’s economy. Losses incurred from turnover and absenteeism of working parents can be avoided with friendlier workplace policies and higher investment in affordable childcare. As an important part of the industry, treating childcare workers better financially can help maintain the workforce in childcare and add to the economy of Florida. Impactful measures that can alleviate the pressing childcare issues mentioned can further grow Florida’s economy.

Read more
An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy

An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of South Florida’s St. Thomas University on Florida’s Economy

/ Categories: Research, Economic Development, Education, ROI Study

St. Thomas University (STU) plays a large role in Florida’s economy, fostering workforce development and economic mobility, particularly for underrepresented communities. This Florida TaxWatch ROI report evaluates STU’s impact, highlighting its contributions to job creation, income growth, and return on investment. With record-breaking enrollment, a diverse student body, and strong financial stability, STU generates over $1.5 billion in economic output and supports more than 8,500 jobs. Every $1 spent on STU results in $21.50 of economic output.

Read more
Actions Florida Should Take to Help Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton Actions Florida Should Take to Help Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Actions Florida Should Take to Help Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton

/ Categories: Research, Blog

This blog post outlines the state's response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton and offers tax relief suggestions to ease the economic burden on impacted residents. It emphasizes extending tax deadlines and delaying property tax payments to mitigate financial stress. The recommendations include expanding relief to all affected areas, halting audits, providing refunds for destroyed property, and encouraging local governments to reduce millage rates. Additionally, it advocates for new legislation to refund property taxes for uninhabitable commercial properties and urges Congress to pass a federal Disaster Tax Relief Act.

Read more
Social Determinants of Health: Education Access and Quality Social Determinants of Health: Education Access and Quality

Social Determinants of Health: Education Access and Quality

/ Categories: Research, Education, Institute of Quality Health and Aging,

The Florida TaxWatch Institute on Quality Health and Aging presents its latest report on the connection between education and health outcomes. This study, part of a series on Social Determinants of Health, reveals how higher education levels correlate with better health, longer lifespans, and reduced healthcare costs. The report explores the economic impact of education on public health and state budgets, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and educators, aiming to guide policies that improve health outcomes and economic prosperity for all Floridians. Download the full report to learn how investing in education can significantly impact Florida's public health and economic future.

Read more
An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College

An Independent Assessment of the Economic Impacts of Indian River State College

/ Categories: Research, Economic Development, Education, ROI Study

The Florida TaxWatch report reveals the substantial economic and educational contributions of Indian River State College (IRSC) to Florida's Treasure Coast and the broader state economy. IRSC, recognized for its affordability and high-quality programs, plays a pivotal role in workforce development through its extensive certificate and degree offerings. The report emphasizes the college's efforts in minimizing student debt and enhancing job readiness through strategic partnerships with businesses and local schools. Economically, IRSC creates over 15,000 jobs annually and generates a significant economic output, with every dollar spent translating into a substantial return for the Florida economy. This analysis serves as a crucial resource for understanding the intersection of education and economic growth, and the strategic role of community colleges like IRSC in fostering regional economic development.

Read more
“If You Build It, He Will Come”: Florida TaxWatch Looks At The Tampa Bay Rays’ Ballpark Proposal “If You Build It, He Will Come”: Florida TaxWatch Looks At The Tampa Bay Rays’ Ballpark Proposal

“If You Build It, He Will Come”: Florida TaxWatch Looks At The Tampa Bay Rays’ Ballpark Proposal

/ Categories: Research, Local Government

This report analyzes the key aspects of the deal and identifies critical questions that local officials should consider before deciding whether the proposed ballpark is in the best interest of taxpayers.

The report does not draw conclusions on the merits of the deal but instead focuses on outlining the important factors that need to be weighed, such as the total public costs, the best use of public funds, and the fairness of the cost-sharing agreement. While the project is expected to generate significant economic impacts over 30 years, research shows that the benefits of publicly subsidized sports facilities are often overstated.

To learn more about this critical issue affecting the Tampa Bay region, download the full report for an in-depth, independent analysis.

Read more
«October 2025»
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
2930
9/30/2025
Interdisciplinary Pain Management As a Means to Help Address Solvency of the State Employees' Health Insurance Trust Fund

Interdisciplinary Pain Management As a Means to Help Address Solvency of the State Employees' Health Insurance Trust Fund

With the Trust Fund projected to face a nearly $1.7 billion shortfall by FY 2029-30 without action, Florida TaxWatch outlines a pragmatic path that reduces costs by treating pain more effectively—not just shifting them to employees.

Read more
1
10/1/2025
Could Florida Experience a Significant Water Shortage?

Could Florida Experience a Significant Water Shortage?

New EDR projections show a widening state funding gap—more than $50 million in FY 2025-26—with total demand still trending upward through 2045.

Read more
23
10/3/2025
New Labor Data Shows Weaker Labor Market Than Previously Expected

New Labor Data Shows Weaker Labor Market Than Previously Expected

Since January 2025, the federal interest rate has remained unchanged at 4.25 to 4.5 percent. The rates have been steady in hopes of curbing inflation and bringing it down to two percent, as unemployment numbers were not concerning until now. The latest revision data, however, will likely push the Federal Reserve to cut rates in their next meeting this month to 4.00 to 4.25 percent.

Read more
45
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
272829303112
3456789

Archive

About TaxWatch

Quick Links

Copyright 2025 by Florida TaxWatch Research Institute : Terms Of Use : Privacy Statement