Bill > H0627

This bill establishes the Be Ready Task Force within the Florida Department of Health to develop a comprehensive strategy for preventing the spread of avian influenza (bird flu) in the state's livestock population and preparing for potential human transmission. The task force will consist of 13 members, including physicians specializing in infectious diseases, state health officials, representatives from emergency management, county health departments, water management districts, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. These members will be appointed by the Governor, state officials, or agency directors and will serve without compensation but can receive reimbursement for travel expenses. The task force is required to develop recommendations for monitoring and reporting livestock avian influenza outbreaks, conducting wastewater monitoring, implementing cost-effective statewide testing, and creating a comprehensive response strategy to prevent the spread of the virus among livestock and humans. By October 1, 2025, the task force must submit a report of its recommendations to the Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker, after which the task force will be dissolved. The bill was prompted by rising avian influenza cases in the animal population, at least 61 reported cases of animal-to-human transmission since April 2024, and a recent fatal case in Louisiana that showed potential for genetic mutation enabling human-to-human transmission.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/627