1939/1940 - Edocs

OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA 11
but it was vetoed by the Chief Executive. The Legislature
also submitted a proposed constitutional amendment pro-
viding for such and this amendment was adopted by the
people last November.
I also called attention in my last report to the work of
simplifying the budget which is prepared biennially for the
Legislature. In this recommendation I also repeat my recommendations
with reference to statutory boards on which
the Cabinet Members serve ex-officio, such as the Con-
servation Commission. If this commission is to continue as
now constituted the Conservation Commissioner should be
employed by that board and made directly responsible to
it along with all other personnel employed by that depart-
ment.
In connection with the ex-officio membership of the Sec-
retary of State on the various boards, some of which are
constitutional, I respectfully call attention to the fact that
during the last two years the Secretary of State has carried
some additional burden because of the ill health and enforced
absence of the Governor. This I was glad to do and
desire now to accord my thanks and appreciation to all
those who so courteously assisted in this work and in these
problems.
CONCLUSION
It is respectfully suggested that in giving consideration
to the financial problems of the state that those officers,
departments and boards having the responsibility of hand-
ling the fundamental and essential operations of state government
be given first consideration as these have for the
most part no "pressure groups" to fight for them.
In conclusion this office is functioning smoothly and I
trust efficiently.
RAG/KBS
Respectfully submitted,
R. A. GRAY,
Secretavi/ of State.