Governor Charlie Crist makes stop in Tampa

TAMPA - On the same day new unemployment numbers are due to be released, Governor Charlie Crist is making a stop in the Bay Area to sign a bill to help tackle the growing problem.

Crist is crisscrossing the state, making five stops, including one in Tampa this afternoon at the Tampa Bay Partnership on West Cypress Street.

The governor says the bill he’s signing will provide tax relief to a number of Florida businesses. He hopes the reduced taxes will encourage companies to start hiring once again.

Crist says the bill will reduce Florida’s unemployment compensation tax for two years. It does this by delaying changes to how the unemployment tax is calculated.

In addition to Tampa, the governor will also make appearances in Tallahassee, Orlando, Fort Myers, and Miami.