Florida Bill: SB 290

Bill Summary

Florida Senate Bill 290 is a comprehensive agriculture and consumer services measure enacted in March 2026 that protects farmer and landscaper autonomy by prohibiting counties and municipalities from restricting gasoline-powered equipment use, while also streamlining land use procedures for agricultural purposes and establishing new support programs for food animal veterinarians and seed research. The bill prevents local overreach by preempting local bans on farm and landscape equipment, protects agricultural lands from development restrictions through easement requirements, and eliminates barriers to agricultural practice. It also creates loan repayment programs to support rural veterinary medicine and establishes the Farmers Feeding Florida Program to increase food security through local agricultural production.

Why It Matters to MAHA

MAHA strongly supports SB 290 because it removes regulatory barriers that government entities have used to restrict agricultural practices and farmer choice. By prohibiting counties and municipalities from banning gasoline-powered farm equipment, the bill protects farmers' right to use proven, reliable tools without facing local prohibition or heavy-handed regulation. The bill also preserves agricultural land use by preventing development restrictions and protecting rural character, ensuring that farmers retain autonomy over their operations and land use decisions. The legislation reduces government overreach at the local level while expanding access to innovative agricultural support programs like veterinary loan repayment, which increases access to essential farm services. Finally, the bill advances health freedom by supporting local food production through the Farmers Feeding Florida Program, giving communities direct access to fresh agricultural products rather than relying solely on centralized food systems.