Representative Scott Franklin (R-FL) is spearheading a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) urging the prioritization of Florida farmers.
"Reports indicate that USDA is preparing between $10 - $14 billion in economic assistance for producers struggling due to losses from collapsing foreign markets, tariffs, and record input costs,' Rep. Franklin's letter reads. "There has also been no indication that specialty crops will be included in this effort."
By "specialty crops," Rep. Franklin refers to fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which Florida, of course, is famous for growing, especially oranges. As the letter explains, the USDA regularly places a greater priority on "row" crops, such as wheat, grain, corn, and oilseeds.
"Many of USDA's past economic aid programs have primarily benefited row crops while specialty crop producers are forced to rely almost exclusively on ad hoc disaster assistance," the letter details. "Further, specialty crop producers are ineligible for many safety net and revenue support programs like the Agriculture Risk Coverage and the Price Loss Coverage programs."
More egregiously, the Florida Congressman says, the Sunshine State rarely sees the benefits of the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage systems, as these programs are more frequently applied to major commodities.
"Florida's specialty crop producers keep America fed and our local economies strong, yet they're frequently last in line for federal relief," Franklin said in a statement. "With labor shortages, higher input costs, and repeated hurricane losses, our growers need programs that fit specialty agriculture. USDA should deliver equitable, timely assistance so Florida farmers can recover and rebuild."
In late September, Representative Darren Soto (D-FL), who signed Franklin's letter, urged the reversal of President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported crops.
"Farmers would rather sell their crops than have a handout," said Rep. Soto.
President Trump has maintained that while U.S. farmers would initially feel the sting, they would ultimately benefit against foreign competitors.
