WASHINGTON – Congressman Adam Putnam has gathered strong bi-partisan support from Florida’s congressional delegation for speedy federal reaction 
to the severe cold weather which appears to have done significant damage to much of Florida’s agriculture.
After a week’s worth of freezing temperatures across most of the state Putnam anticipates that a formal request from the state for emergency assistance will be coming soon to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Agriculture has an impact of more than $87 billion on Florida’s economy.
“From our citrus groves, to our fields to our tropical fish ponds, initial reports indicate we seen some of the most damaging weather Florida’s experienced in more than a decade,” said Putnam, “It may be days before an exact dollar figure can be established, but we know it’s been a severe blow to one of the most important parts of Florida’s economy. We need to make sure the federal government is moving as rapidly as possible to evaluate the damage and make the appropriate response.”
The letter signed by Putnam, 11 other members of the House and both Florida Senators asks for a thorough and expedited review of the damage assessment and emergency disaster declaration request when it is received.
Since 2001, Putnam has represented Florida’s 12th Congressional District, which includes most of Polk County and portions of Hillsborough and Osceola counties.
CLICK HERE for the full text of the delegation letter to Secretary Vilsack.