Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Rooney (R-Fla.) joined members of the Florida Congressional Delegation urging Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to act promptly to assist Florida agriculture growers recover from damage caused by the recent freeze.
“I have been in contact with local farmers since last week, and I have been working with Florida’s Congressional Delegation to ensure the federal response to the freeze is prompt and efficient once a disaster declaration is issued,” said Rooney. “We encourage the Florida Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to quickly evaluate the damage as it becomes evident, some of which might not be known for several more days and weeks. Agriculture in Florida, and specifically in the 16th district, plays a significant role in our economy and the effects of this freeze could be devastating to the industry and region. I will continue to work to assist in any way possible to help Florida’s farmers.”