Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson, emphasized major wins in the Florida Legislature’s 2026/2027 budget. Commissioner Simpson said, ““This year’s budget reflects a historic commitment by Senate President Albritton, House Speaker Perez, and the entire Florida Legislature to support Florida’s farmers — the people who quietly and humbly feed our communities, fuel our economy, and protect our natural resources. Florida farmers faced a difficult year marked by devastating freezes, wildfires, and other serious challenges. In response, the Florida Legislature delivered a budget that makes 2026 The Year of the Farmer.”
Some of the highlights in the 2026/2027 budget include The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program received $425 million, The Florida Forest Service received $132 million, Farmers Feeding Florida received $38 million, Florida’s citrus industry received $193.4 million, FDACS’ Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory received over $42 million, FDACS received $4 million, Florida Future Farmers of America received $1 million, The Florida State Fair received $9.5 million, and The Fresh From Florida program received $19 million.
Commissioner Simpson also said, “Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature understand that supporting agriculture means supporting our food supply, our economy, our environment, and our way of life. I’m grateful for the continued partnership and unwavering support of FDACS’ mission to serve Florida families, farmers, ranchers, and consumers.”
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.