New legislation streamlines renewal of concealed weapon licenses, bans cultivated meat
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – New legislation filed by Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, and Rep. Danny Alvarez, R-Riverview, aims to make the renewal and replacement of concealed carry and other professional licenses more convenient for Floridians, according to the sponsors.
The legislation would also address several agricultural concerns, including a ban manufacturing and selling cultivated meats as well as more criminal penalties for trespassing on commercial agriculture properties with the intent to commit a crime, according to a press release from the department of agriculture.
The group also aims to combat saw palmetto berry thefts by prohibiting the harvest, transport, processing, or purchase of saw palmetto berries without a valid permit and permission from landowners.
“This legislation reflects our continued commitment to supporting and protecting Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers, enhancing consumer protection and transparency, and building upon good governance,” Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said on a press release.
“By supporting our future farmers’ 4-H and FFA activities, banning ‘cultivated meat,’ and expanding safeguards for agricultural producers and consumers, we aim to promote a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Florida,” he added.
Other goals with the legislation include providing school districts the ability to approve 4-H and Future Farmers of America related activities as excused absences for students.
“As a retired Army Green Beret, I know the complexities of today’s hyper competitive world and it is imperative we stabilize, revitalize and grow agriculture to ensure Florida’s footprint on the world stage,” Collins said in the release.
“I am honored to work with Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Rep. Danny Alvarez to protect framers, ranchers and growers that create this $180 billion economic enterprise,” he said.
The proposal aims to provide transparency and anti-fraud protections into Florida’s charitable organizations, according to the press release. It would require pest control companies provide customers with documentation for all wood-destroying organism inspection ad treatments.
The press release also noted that there would be increased transparency for consumers having their household items transported by interstate movers.
Alvarez said that he was proud to stand with Florida’s farmers and ranchers with this important legislation that “defends their way of life.”
“Florida’s agriculture industry is not only the backbone of our economy – contributing over $180 billion annually and helping to employ more than 2.5 million people – it is critical to our food security and the future prosperity of our state and nation,” Alvarez said.
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed permitless carry legislation into law in April. The bill allows for Floridians to conceal their firearms without the need for a license.
