Farmers and ranchers from across the Sunshine State will gather at the state Capitol on Tuesday, January 16 to discuss key policy issues with Florida lawmakers as part of Farm Bureau Day.
Agriculturalists will share their authentic perspectives on key public policy issues. Three main initiatives are being addressed this year: crafting health plans for members, combatting overregulation by local governments of farmworker housing and pushing for relief from tangible personal property taxes.
State Sen. Danny Alvarez and Rep. Corey Simon will be recognized at the legislative briefing breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Civic Center with the Champion of Agriculture award, presented by Florida Farm Bureau Federation.
A Taste of Florida Agriculture evening reception will wrap up the day from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Capitol Courtyard, featuring special guest speakers Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith. The reception will feature live music from the Bellamy Brothers, multi-award winning recording artists and Pasco County natives.
“Farm Bureau Day is a great opportunity to allow our elected officials to experience the abundance of Florida agriculture and the economic impact of our industry,” said Andrew Walmsley, Florida Farm Bureau’s Director of Legislative Affairs. “The strength behind our organization is attributed to our grassroots members who take time away from their farms and ranches, to advocate for policies that will strengthen our industry, protect Florida’s natural resources, and ensure consumers have access to a safe and healthy food supply.”
The Taste of Florida Agriculture reception is a free public event where guests can sample locally-grown Florida foods, meet farm families and learn more about the benefits of agriculture for everyone in our state. This event is one of the most attended legislative receptions of the year and one that lawmakers look forward to.
Click here for more information about Farm Bureau Day.
