Florida passes new Farm Bill: How it impacts specialty crop growers
The Florida Legislature advances a new farm bill affecting land use, equipment and safety rules. See what it means for growers.
The Florida Legislature has approved the 2026 Florida Farm Bill (SB 290), a wide-ranging package that addresses agricultural production, land use, public safety and regulatory policy. The bill now requires the governor’s signature for ratification.
Wilton Simpson, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, said the bill is intended to support the state’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities while updating policies overseen by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The measure was sponsored by state reps Keith Truenow and Danny Alvarez.
If enacted, the legislation would introduce several changes for farmers in the Sunshine State:
- Equipment regulations. Counties and municipalities would be prohibited from restricting the use of gasoline- or diesel-powered farm and landscape equipment.
- Rural land use. High-density development would be limited on land designated as rural, conservation or greenspace unless unanimously approved by local governments.
- Food access programs. The Farmers Feeding Florida program would become permanent, directing Florida-grown products to food banks and charitable food distribution networks.
- State land management. The state would review certain lands acquired since 2024 to determine whether parcels could be declared surplus and returned to agricultural production.
- Surface water protections. Only Class AA biosolids would be permitted for land application.
- Commercial driver safety. The bill would create penalties for fraudulent activities or assisting others in cheating on Commercial Driver License exams.
- Veterinary workforce support. A loan repayment program would reimburse up to $25,000 per year for veterinarians treating food animals or equines who commit to practicing in Florida.
Lawmakers said the bill is designed to balance agricultural competitiveness while reducing regulatory uncertainty for growers and agribusinesses statewide.