In Fiscal Year 2009-10, state agencies spent over $59.8 million on travel. Travel costs have declined 48%, or $55.2 million, over the last four fiscal years. Agencies are changing their operations to further reduce costs, including limiting travel to mission-critical activities and increasing use of conferencing technology. Changes to Florida laws and directives from the Governor have substantially restricted travel. However, restrictions in law expire in July 2011. We recommend that the Legislature consider reauthorizing these restrictions. In addition, the Legislature could consider several options to further reduce costs, including

• reducing travel funding;
• statutorily capping reimbursement for hotel expenses using the federal hotel reimbursement rate as a ceiling;
• modifying per diem rates for the last day of travel;
• contracting for travel agent services;
• modifying the transportation model for travelers driving personal vehicles high-mileage for state business; and
• directing agencies to procure the most cost-effective electronic conferencing services.