NE Florida News

U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean, alongside U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, has called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expedite aid for Florida's agricultural sector following significant storm damage. The entire Florida delegation joined in urging USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to provide swift assistance.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton have caused extensive damage across Florida, with losses estimated between $2 billion and $3.3 billion according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The state has requested federal disaster designations from the USDA for affected counties.

Congressman Bean stated, “Hurricanes Helene and Milton delivered a severe blow to our farmers, growers, and agricultural community, and they are in desperate need of federal assistance." He emphasized agriculture's importance to Florida’s economy, generating over $182.6 billion annually and supporting more than 2.5 million jobs.

Senator Rubio highlighted the urgency of the situation: "The devastation from Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton has hit Florida’s farmers hard... The U.S. Department of Agriculture must act swiftly to deliver the critical aid our agricultural producers need."

In their letter to Secretary Vilsack, Florida lawmakers noted that agriculture is the state's second-largest industry: “These back-to-back major hurricanes have decimated Florida agriculture... As Members of Congress, it is our responsibility to work with USDA to best assist the producers who feed our nation.”

The letter was co-signed by several representatives from both parties within the state delegation.