SEBRING, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Sebring on Monday where he signed SB 290, the Florida Farm Bill.
Speaking at the Highlands County Fairgrounds, DeSantis said the sweeping package is designed to strengthen the state’s agricultural industry, protect consumers, and reinforce commitments to food security, public safety, and rural land conservation.
“Today in Sebring, I signed SB 290,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This important farm bill builds on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ reforms to protect Florida agriculture, consumers, and rural communities. It also protects the health, security, and freedom of Floridians.”
The law shields farmers from local bans on gas- and diesel-powered equipment, limits high-density development in agricultural and conservation zones, and reduces bureaucratic hurdles for agritourism. It funds programs to strengthen domestic food distribution, supports veterinarians who care for food animals and horses, and makes the Farmers Feeding Florida program permanent.
SB 290 also tightens public-safety measures by criminalizing cheating on commercial driver license exams, banning signal jamming devices, and strengthening enforcement against unwanted commercial solicitation.