The Florida Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Florida program us using the $19 appropriated from the state legislature to promote Florida-grown products and champion Florida’s agriculture industry through consumer marketing campaigns and partnerships with 100+ domestic and international retailers.
This year, Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers — especially those impacted by natural disasters have received $600 million in federal funding.
Some of the legislation this year championed by the state Agriculture commissioner Wilton Simpson include:
Defending the freedom of Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and residents to use the farm and lawn care equipment of their choosing by prohibiting counties and municipalities from banning the use of gasoline or diesel-powered farm and landscape equipment.
Protecting the natural character of Florida’s small, rural communities by prohibiting, unless unanimously approved by the local government, high-density development on lands designated as rural, conservation, or greenspace in a local comprehensive plan.
Made permanent the Farmers Feeding Florida program, which directs fresh, Florida agricultural products into food banks to provide additional healthy food options for those in need.
Promoted more agricultural land to grow Florida’s domestic food supply by creating a process for the state to determine if there are lands purchased since 2024 that can be surplused and put back into agricultural production.
Protected Florida’s natural resources by prohibiting the application of biosolids other than Class AA, which have been treated for the highest level of pathogen removal.
Supported Florida’s veterinarians, strengthened our state’s agricultural workforce, and bolstered our food security by establishing a loan repayment program to reimburse up to $25,000 per year for veterinarians who treat food animals and equines and who commit to working in Florida.
