AeA Florida Council Urges Legislature to Continue Investment in State’s Technology Infrastructure

Orlando, FL (April 7, 2008) – In a letter sent to Hon. Lisa Carlton of the Florida Senate and Hon. Ray Hansom of the Florida House of Representatives, AeA, on behalf of its over 200 member companies in Florida, made a plea to state legislators to consider sparing technology investments in their budget cutting. A world-class center for technology, Florida ranks as the fourth largest high-tech state in the country according to Cyberstates 2008: A Complete State-by-State Overview of the High-Technology Industry, AeA’s annual report of national tech trends on employment, venture capital investments, wages, establishments, payroll, and research and development. However this ranking, along with the many jobs and investments the high-tech industry brings to Florida could be threatened by proposed budget cuts.

“In today’s world, investing in technology is as important as investing in physical infrastructure like bridges and roads,” said Maryann Fiala, Executive Director of AeA’s Florida Council. “AeA is committed to maintaining and growing a strong infrastructure to support the vital work of the government sector, and is working around the country to help Chief Information Officers make sure government can take full advantage of all that technology offers.”

The letter stated that expenditures in technology save money over a period of time far in excess of the appropriation, and that potential ROI in the form of improved public safety, enhanced data security and more efficient delivery of state services will benefit all who live and conduct business in Florida.

“As Managing Partner & CEO of a technology company in South Florida, I know first-hand that upgrades in technology infrastructure lead to improved public service to the citizens and people who do business in Florida,” said Amjad Shamim of AAJ Technologies. “Technology enhancements significantly improve employee productivity, effectiveness and customer service among state agencies. Many of the state agencies have made progress in recent years in providing information and services online, but there are many additional opportunities for improvement.”

Fiala continued, “Increasingly, the solutions our technology companies provide are crucial to helping government achieve its objectives. Our IT infrastructure serves as a vital tool in connecting the public with its government, and government agencies with one another. It is critical that our IT infrastructure be in good working order and equipped to meet the state’s needs.”

For more information about AeA’s Florida Council, please visit www.aeanet.org/florida.

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About AeA
AeA, the nation’s largest technology trade association representing all segments of the high-tech industry, is dedicated solely to helping our members’ top line and bottom line. We do this in partnership with our small, medium, and large member companies by lobbying governments at the state, federal, and international levels, providing access to capital and business opportunities, and offering select business services and networking programs. For more information, please visit www.aeanet.org.

This page was last updated on 04/07/08.