Rep. Ted Yoho, Gov. DeSantis, USDA Secretary Perdue Discuss Federal Efforts for Florida Recovery

GAINESVILLE, Florida, June 7 -- Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Florida, issued the following news release:

Congressman Ted S. Yoho (R-FL) met with Governor Ron DeSantis and USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue in Tallahassee today to discuss Florida's recovery from Hurricane Michael and the most recent federal efforts. On June 3rd, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a $19.1 billion disaster relief bill that was signed by President Donald Trump yesterday, June 6th.

In addition to Congressman Yoho, Governor DeSantis and Secretary Perdue, today's meeting included Commissioner Nikki Fried, Representatives from the Florida State House and Senate, Florida Farm Bureau, Florida Citrus Mutual, the Florida Cattlemen's Association, Florida Blueberry Growers, the Florida Forestry Association, and Florida Emergency Management.

Discussions were centered around potential block grants for various commodities, timelines for rolling out relief programs, and current relief efforts undertaken by the State.

Congressman Ted Yoho issued the following statement:

"As Floridians, we are all too familiar with the long-term effects of a serious natural disaster. As the number two industry in the state, agriculture plays a vital role in keeping our economy and our environment secure. I was glad to have been a part of today's discussion on how federal efforts in conjunction with State relief can continue to get the Florida panhandle along with other areas of the state back on track. The devastation that Hurricane Michael left in its wake was startling not just here in Florida but across the Nation.

"I feel confident that our discussion today will provide the necessary certainty to our agricultural producers that help is on the way. I commend Governor DeSantis and the state legislators for making a decisive executive decision to create the bridge loan program. Also, we are thankful that the President signed the disaster relief bill immediately after Congress passed this last week and for Secretary Purdue's concerns and commitment to bring relief as soon as possible. I will continue to work with our Administration, the Governor's office, and other officials to ensure that we continue to work through these current challenges while preparing for the future."