When Joe Biden was president, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said he was constantly pushing back against a woke agenda from the federal government that wanted to insert parts of the “green new deal” on Florida’s agriculture community.
“Not anymore,” said the Commissioner.
If the legislation bill is signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Simpson says the 2026 Florida Farm Bill will protect consumers, farmers and families and leave Biden era policies in the past.
Some of the features in the farm bill.
Defending Floridians’ Freedom to Use Gasoline-Powered Farm and Lawn Care Equipment
The bill would allow 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 Natural Lands From High-density Development
This would allow small, rural communities to prohibit, unless unanimously approved by the local government, high-density development on lands designated as rural, conservation, or greenspace in a local comprehensive plan.
Making the Farmers Feeding Florida Program Permanent
Making permanent the program that directs fresh, Florida agricultural products into food banks to provide additional healthy food options for those in need.
Promoting More Agricultural Land to Grow Florida’s Domestic Food Supply
Allowing the state to determine if there are lands purchased since 2024 that can be surplused and put back into agricultural production to protect our domestic food supply.
Protecting Florida’s Natural Resources
Prohibiting the application of biosolids other than Class AA, which have been treated for the highest level of pathogen removal.
Ensuring Safety on Florida’s Roads
Safeguarding Floridians from unqualified truck drivers who can’t read or understand vital road and safety information by making it a crime to cheat, or help someone cheat, on the Commercial Driver License proficiency exam.
Restoring Privacy with the No-Knock Homestead Act
Prohibiting door-to-door commercial solicitation at homes displaying “No Solicitation” signs and establishing criminal penalties for violators.
Holding Bad Contractors Accountable
Protecting small businesses, ensuring fairness in state contracting, and safeguarding taxpayer dollars by creating a suspended vendor list and administrative penalties for contractors who fail to pay their subcontractors or suppliers.
