The Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) named Florida Senator Jay Collins and Florida Representative Kaylee Tuck as its Legislators of the year for 2023. The two were recognized at the FFVA’s 79th annual convention in Naples on Sept. 25-27.
The FFVA presents the awards to elected officials who have worked to promote public policies that advance and protect Florida agriculture.
Collins (R-District 14) had a key role in the passage of Senate Bill 1164, which created the Tax-Exempt Agricultural Materials (TEAM) card.
It streamlines the process of receiving tax relief on items purchased that are agriculturally exempt. Collins also serves as chair of the Florida Senate Agriculture Committee.
Tuck (R-District 83) led the charge on a bill in the most recent legislative session to add common sense and consistency to the permitting and construction of farm labor housing.
Though the bill failed to pass, Tuck remains committed to fine-tuning the legislation and reintroducing it during the 2024 session.