FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9th, 2024
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STATEMENT: Central Florida Legislators Support Strengthening Local Agriculture in Puerto Rico
Orlando, FL – A group of Central Florida legislators, alongside the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, have united to express their strong support for strengthening local agriculture in Puerto Rico. In a letter, they emphasize the importance of investing in the local agricultural economy and the vital role that local farming plays in the economic and social well-being of the island of Puerto Rico. Florida is home to a 1.2 million strong Puerto Rican Diaspora. As we saw after the devastating effects of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, what happens on the island has a direct impact in Florida and vice versa. Puerto Rican ports were closed for 3 weeks after Maria hit in 2017. This limited the food supply as the island imports more than 85 percent of the food it consumes.
Recognizing the challenges that Puerto Rico’s agricultural sector faces, including the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and economic pressures, the legislators highlighted the need for increased investment and resources to help local farmers thrive. Their collective action underscores the shared commitment to fostering a self-sufficient agricultural community in Puerto Rico.
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