With week six behind us, the 2025 Florida Legislative Session has officially crossed the halfway point. The pace remains brisk as committees continue advancing key policy priorities, but a noticeable shift is underway. Lawmakers are now turning their attention toward the state budget, transitioning from shaping policy to negotiating funding. The coming weeks promise to be busy, with budget talks expected to take center stage as legislators work to finalize investments across the state - especially for Florida's agriculture industry.
Bill Tracking
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) - Florida Farm Bill
SB 700 by Sen. Truenow (R - Tavares) HB 651 by Rep. Tuck (R - Lake Placid)
The Florida Farm Bill made major progress this week. SB 700 cleared its final committee stop in the Senate, while HB 651 has just one stop remaining in the House Commerce Committee. These bills remain laser-focused on strengthening Florida’s agricultural community through practical, forward-looking solutions. Key provisions include improved product labeling to reduce consumer confusion and ensure that imitation products are clearly distinguished. A particularly impactful element of the bill allows agricultural producers to build housing for their legal employees directly on agricultural land—an important step in tackling the workforce housing crisis in rural communities. Additionally, the bill invests in the future of Florida agriculture by allowing the Department of Agriculture to sponsor membership dues for 4-H and FFA students, nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders.
We deeply appreciate the leadership of Senator Truenow, Representative Tuck, and Commissioner Simpson for their commitment to addressing critical issues in the ag sector.
Appropriations
SB 2500 Senate Appropriations Committee 5001 House Budget Committee
This week, both the House and Senate formally introduced their proposed budgets. While there are still differences to reconcile between the two chambers, it's encouraging to see strong support for agricultural priorities across both proposals. Funding has been earmarked for key initiatives such as UF/IFAS, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the Florida Agricultural Business Associate Pathway, the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, and much more.
Though the House and Senate budget bills are not yet aligned, we’re committed to advocating for agriculture and ensuring these priorities remain at the forefront as negotiations unfold.
Florida Farm Bureau Federation, PO Box 147034, Gainesville, FL 32614
