Florida Gov. Rick Scott's decision not to accept a $2.4 billion federal grant for a high speed rail project was a "courageous" one according to a congratulatory letter sent today from the Republican Liberty Caucus of Florida.

In the letter, RLCFL Chair Matt Nye told the governor "when you spoke an RLC event back in September, you promised you would be making the tough decisions to get Florida back in fiscal order. With this decision, you are doing so and we commend you."

The letter cites the recent Reason Foundation study, "The Tampa to Orlando High Speed Rail Project: A Florida Taxpayer Risk Assessment," which suggests the ultimate cost of the project could exceed expectations by $3 billion and these overrruns would be borne by Florida taxpayers.

As noted by RLCFL Vice Chair John Stevens, the other issue at stake is our responsibility to demand fiscal responsibility at the federal level of government. "With a $13 trillion dollar national debt and deficits as far as the eye can see, state governors and legislators must send an unequivocal message to Washington DC that spending beyond our means -- even if it would benefit their state -- is no longer acceptable."

A thank you letter was also mailed to Senate President Mike Haridopolos who announced today he would stand by the governor's decision.

The press release was sent to about 90 media outlets across the state.

TAKE ACTION: To let your legislators know how you feel on this issue, go here. And here: www.StandWithRick.com . Thanks!

(Pictured above, RLCers protest inside Capitol Building during RLC Day at the Capitol 2009.)