Florida Farm Bureau President John Hoblick’s statement on Gov. Scott’s signing of the Florida Families First Budget

May 21, 2013

Today, Gov. Rick Scott signed into law a budget that allows Florida’s agricultural industry to remain a driving force in the state.  The Florida Families First budget makes new investments in Florida’s agricultural industry, including additional funds for the Fresh from Florida program, Everglades restoration and Citrus greening research.

John Hoblick, President of Florida Farm Bureau Federation, today issued the following statement on Gov. Scott’s signing of the Florida Families First Budget:

“Florida Farm Bureau commends Gov. Scott and the Florida Legislature for their investment into agriculture, an industry that generates more than $100 billion annual economic impact for the state of Florida.”

“The Fresh from Florida marketing program helps sustain sales of foods and other items grown on family farms located throughout Florida.  Gov. Scott’s Families First Budget makes a strong commitment to family farms and agriculture producers in Florida by providing necessary funds to support the world-wide marketing of Florida grown products.  The Fresh from Florida program helps our farmers and ranchers continue to create benefits for all Floridians as they generate the second most important base of our economy.”

“Gov. Scott and the Legislature’s $9.5 million investment in research aimed at stopping citrus greening is critical.  Florida citrus is a vital part of agriculture and Florida’s economy. This commitment will go a long way to ensure that our citrus growers will overcome this devastating disease and continue to produce the products we all enjoy.”

“Florida Farm Bureau is pleased with Gov. Scott’s commitment to continued funding for key Everglades restoration projects such as the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP).  Gov. Scott and the legislature made a $70 million investment into a natural treasure that is essential to Florida and the rest of the country.”