HB 59- Relating to Agritourism
On Wednesday, October 21st, HB 59, relating to Agritourism, by Rep. Neil Combee (R-Auburndale) passed unanimously through the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee with 11 yeas and 0 nays.

HB 59 is the same bill from the 2015 Regular Session. The bill prohibits local governments from enforcing any local ordinance, regulation, rule, or policy that prohibits, restricts, regulates, or otherwise limits an agritourism activity on land classified as agricultural land under Florida’s greenbelt law. An “agritourism activity” is any agricultural related activity consistent with a bona fide farm or ranch or in a working forest that allows members of the general public, for recreational, entertainment, or educational purposes, to view or enjoy activities, including farming, ranching, historical, cultural, or harvest-your-own activities and attractions. Agritourism is one of the many methods farmers use to diversify and increase their income. AIF stood in support of this bill.

AIF supports any legislation that allows Florida farmers to safely expand their businesses through the use of Agritourism.