Mike Haridopolos and Dean Cannon | Credit: Gray Rohrer

After some contentious positioning, Senate President Mike Haridopolos and House Speaker Dean Cannon announced Tuesday morning that they have reached a deal on budget allocations for the 2011-2012 fiscal year, setting the stage for a final conferencing.

The deal was announced less than 24 hours after the Senate's chief negotiator, Sen. J.D. Alexander, R-Lake Wales, complained of Cannon's "stunts" and negotiating tactics and his House counterpart, Rep. Denise Grimsley, R-Sebring, blamed the Senate for the lack of progress.

"Resolving a budget shortfall of nearly $4 billion is a tall order, but I’m pleased the House and Senate worked through this difficult process,” said Cannon, R-Winter Park. “Our allocations ensure that we preserve our bond ratings by maintaining adequate reserves. Most importantly, we do not take money out of the struggling Florida economy by increasing taxes or fees.”

Haridopolos also praised the agreement -- and praised the cooperation between the two chambers. 

"While many states and the federal government are foundering under crushing deficit spending, we kept our promise that we would not raise taxes or fees during these difficult economic times,” said Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island. “For months, I've heard over and over again that we would never be able to get this done. Working as a team, the House and Senate reached these budget allocations on behalf of all Floridians.”

The two leaders said they would name members of the budget conference later Tuesday, with meetings starting on Wednesday morning.