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Lawmakers left Tallahassee a month ago in a huff, after a nasty disagreement about healthcare in the state. As Matt Galka tells us, they’re back in Florida’s capital city now – on deadline to craft a state budget before the month ends.

The Florida House listened to the sounds of the Beatles. The track “Come Together” played over the loudspeakers shortly before the chamber started a special session to debate healthcare and craft a state budget.

The Boys were Back in Town on the Senate’s side as well. Both chambers were looking for harmony after a meltdown at the end of April during regular session caused lawmakers to call it quits without a state budget.  The sides couldn’t come to an agreement on expanding Medicaid.

The House Speaker indicated that his chamber is still saying “Dream On” when it comes to the Senate’s healthcare expansion pla.

“There’s a saying if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s a duck. It’s Medicaid expansion, so whether you’re talking to me or other members, other members may have a problem with the fiscal side of it,” Rep. Steve Crisafulli (R-Merritt Island) told reporters.

The Senate’s position didn’t change much during the past month. They’re continuing to push for their extended coverage plan.

=“I’ve been around for a long time and while I think it’s the right thing to do and it’s about as conservative free market as you’re going to get, the time is right, and some will say well the federal Government won’t approve it, I say lets find out,” said Senate President Andy Gardiner (R-Orland0).

Senators may be humming Don’t Stop Believing over the course of the 20 day special session. It is a long shot the House budges from their stance on healthcare.

The Florida House plans to formally vote on healthcare expansion Friday.  The state’s current spending plan expires at the end of the month, but both chambers say they’re committed to passing a budget before then.