The federal government began a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2025, causing disruptions for Florida’s agricultural community. The Florida Farm Bureau has called on the Senate to pass the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 to resume government operations.
“Our farm families need stability,” said Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith. “Passing the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 will allow critical work to continue without interruption.”
The shutdown has halted important services from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that are used by farmers and ranchers. These services include disaster assistance, conservation programs, and animal health protection. The Florida Farm Bureau notes that farmers are already dealing with high costs, market instability, and threats to crops and livestock, and that losing access to these programs increases pressure on farm families and could impact the nation’s food supply.