Florida cattle officials are asking the Legislature to create a marketing program that could raise up to $900,000 annually to promote beef consumption and research in the state.
The effort is called the “Beef Checkoff Program,” after the 30-year-old national effort of the same name. The Ledger reports that the Florida version also would raise money through a $1 assessment on the sale of every head of cattle.
If approved by the Legislature, which begins its annual 60-day session March 3, and the governor, Florida cattle ranchers also must consent to the program by a majority vote in a referendum to be held within 6 months of its enactment.
