The Senate just released its budget, which includes $6 million for St. Johns River restoration.

The funding was a big issue last year. State Sen. John Thrasher, R - St. Augustine, secured $10 million for the river in the Legislature's final budget, but it was vetoed by Gov. Rick Scott.

The House did not include funding in their budget, which must be squared with the Senate's version.

This year’s money is in two categories. The Senate proposes spending $5.6 million on restoration, and $400,000 for the University of North Florida to conduct an analysis of the river.

Overall, the Senate's budget is $70.7 billion. That’s an increase from the House's $69.2 billion spending plan.

LINK:  http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/403455/matt-dixon/2012-02-10/s...