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Nelson: Legislative Turmoil Delays Deal To Bring Jobs To Florida Space Coast

Florida's Senate race between Republican Governor Rick Scott and Democratic incumbent Bill Nelson was neck-and-neck all evening. Photo: Amy Green
Florida's Senate race between Republican Governor Rick Scott and Democratic incumbent Bill Nelson was neck-and-neck all evening. Photo: Amy Green

U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson says turmoil in the Florida Legislature is hindering a deal to bring aerospace manufacturer Blue Origin to the Space Coast.

The deal would include a rocket manufacturing site and launches from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Brevard County already has offered the aerospace company established by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos an $8 million incentive package.

Nelson says the state is considering a $10 million package, but it is uncertain whether lawmakers will approve it.

"I absolutely beg them to pass that because if they do I think that that is the last sweetener that will bring a whole new rocket industry to east central Florida."

The Legislature is in a special session on the state budget after failing to reach an agreement earlier this spring.

Blue Origin also has considered setting up shop Georgia and North Carolina.

Amy Green covered the environment for WMFE until 2023. Her work included the 2020 podcast DRAINED.