TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (The News Service of Florida) - Officials say proposals filed for the 2019 legislative session will try again to prevent local governments from regulating homeowners' vegetable gardens.
The measures stem from a legal dispute between two homeowners and the Village of Miami Shores over an ordinance that bans front-yard vegetable gardens.
The couple had maintained a front-yard garden for nearly two decades but up-rooted their vegetables when faced with the possibility of fines.
They challenged the constitutionality of the ordinance but lost in court.
Senate Bill sponsor Rob Bradley said the ordinance is un-American.
"It comes down to fundamental freedom. If you own a piece of property, your piece of the American Dream, you can grow your own food on your own property," said Senator Bradley.
Bradley convinced the Senate during the 2018 session to approve a similar bill that would prevent such ordinances, but the measure did not pass the House.
The Senate bill is scheduled to be heard by a legislative committee next week.
