The bill amends Florida Statutes to rename the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program to the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Emergency Loan Program. It revises definitions and expands the use of loan funds to include labor costs and the resetting and replanting of agriculture and aquaculture commodities. The maximum loan amount is increased to $1.5 million, and applicants affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton may qualify for a supplemental loan of up to $1 million, which will not count towards the maximum loan limit. The bill also updates eligibility criteria, allows for the renewal of loan applications, and permits the deferral or waiver of loan payments under specific circumstances.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Silviculture Emergency Recovery Program to provide grants to timber landowners affected by declared emergencies, outlining specific uses for the grants, such as timber stand restoration and road clearing. It mandates coordination with state agencies to ensure timber landowners have access to financial assistance while avoiding duplication of funding sources. Furthermore, the bill creates a Citrus Research and Development Foundation program to support research and field trials aimed at combating citrus pests and diseases. It establishes the CRDF as the entity responsible for managing a comprehensive field trial program, mandates data collection, and outlines the department's role in assisting the CRDF with funding for administrative costs. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1159 Filed: 570.822