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Governor Charlie Crist is calling for a three billion dollar increase in state spending, while lawmakers are preparing to cut the budget by as much. Crist released his full budget proposal today, which includes increased spending on schools, the environment and health care. The proposal relies heavily on money from a failed gaming compact and trust fund dollars. Crist says his plan will help boost the state’s economy.

“I think what it is, is a recognition we have got to move forward on education, that we have a recommitment to our environment and I think those two things are important to Florida’s economy,” said Crist.

The governor’s plan doesn’t include layoffs, pay cuts, or benefit reductions for state workers. Legislative leaders will likely reject a bulk of the governor’s suggestions when they begin crafting the budget in March.