Florida House leaders abruptly closed the 2015 regular legislative session three days early with no budget approved, almost certainly forcing a special session to be called in the near future. State House and Senate members have been at an impasse over inclusion of a Medicaid expansion alternative in the state budget.

State Rep. Julio Gonzalez, R-Venice, said he was unaware House leadership would adjourn until Speaker Steve Crissafulli took to the podium to make the announcement mid-day Tuesday. After speaking with members of House leadership following the news, Gonzalez said he agreed with the move, surprising as it was. “It’s probably the appropriate thing,” he said. “We are at an insurmountable impasse based on, in my opinion, the Senate’s unyielding position.” He said House members last week offered a $200 million concession on the budget, then a $600 million one, but there was no movement. Gonzalez said a budget will be passed before a constitutional deadline of June 30, but it would be no more productive to hold negotiations now than it would be in several weeks.

Florida Senate leaders have been focused on the availability of $2.2 billion in federal funding through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. House leadership and Gov. Rick Scott oppose accepting the funding.