Bill > S0850

This bill requires enriched grain products sold in Florida to contain folic acid, with the goal of reducing neural tube defects and improving public health. Specifically, the bill mandates that products like wheat flour, corn masa, corn masa flour, corn masa products, white rice products, breads, and cereals must be fortified with folic acid at specified levels: 0.7 milligrams per pound for corn masa flour, and 0.4 milligrams per pound for corn masa and white rice products. The legislation is based on findings that neural tube defects like spina bifida cause significant disability and healthcare costs, with certain Florida counties experiencing higher rates among minority populations. Products from cottage food operations and certified organic products are exempt from these requirements. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in coordination with the Department of Health, will enforce the provisions and is appropriated $250,000 for implementation, inspections, and public education. The Department of Health must submit annual reports to the legislature detailing the implementation and any observed reduction in neural tube defects. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, with the goal of preventing birth defects, reducing long-term public health expenditures, and promoting community health.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/850