Latest news with #FloridaFarmBill
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Basically forced medication': Florida's Ron DeSantis signs farm bill rewriting rules on water, agriculture
Florida just rewrote a large chunk of its agricultural rule book. On May 15, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 700 into law. The 100-plus page 'Florida Farm Bill' rewires state agriculture from the faucet to the skies. Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Nervous about the stock market in 2025? Find out how you can access this $1B private real estate fund (with as little as $10) The law bans community water fluoridation, forbids plant-based drinks from using words like 'milk,' grounds activist drones, shields 4-H projects from zoning fights and lets growers sue banks that deny loans over climate policies. Most provisions kick in by July 1, reshaping daily life for farmers and consumers alike. Here's how these changes could impact Floridians. The headline change of the bill is a statewide ban on adding fluoride to drinking water. The law doesn't specifically mention fluoride; rather the law bans 'The use of any additives in a public water system which do not meet the definition of a water quality additive as defined in s. 403.852, or the use of any additives included primarily for health-related purposes." DeSantis called fluoridation 'forced medication on people' and said residents can add the mineral at home if they wish. Florida is only the second state to ban fluoride in drinking water; Utah outlawed it in March. But officials and medical experts are concerned about the long-term impact. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava shared a statement in which she said, in part: 'I am deeply disappointed by the Florida Legislature's decision to pursue a statewide ban on water fluoridation, a decision that disregards the overwhelming consensus of dentists, doctors, and medical experts and will end a practice that has been in place for decades to protect our health.' The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Dental Association still rank water fluoridation among the top public-health wins of the 20th century, noting it cuts cavities by more than 25% even in the toothpaste era. Hawaii, where only 11% of residents get fluoridated water, records the nation's worst child-decay rate — 71% of third-graders have tooth decay, compared to the national average of 52%. The CDC notes that cavities often go untreated and can cause pain and severe infections that may result in issues with eating, playing and learning. In some cases, cavities can lead to abscesses, which can, in rare cases, lead to death. Read more: This is how American car dealers use the '4-square method' to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs The bill also orders 'truth in labeling,' targeting plant-based or lab-grown products. These products can no longer use the words milk, meat, poultry or eggs. "If it's not grown on a hoof, you're not going to be able to call it meat," Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson said at the signing ceremony held on his property. "And if it's not out of an udder, you're not going to be able to call it milk." For producers, this law change means they must make changes to labeling including removing the word "milk" from packaging for milk alternatives like soy milk, oat milk and almond milk. Shoppers can expect clearer language on the products they buy and, possibly, a modest price hike as procedures scramble to update their packaging. The law also covers three other farm-related topics, including drone usage over farms, 4-H funding and how lenders extend credit to farmers. Flying a drone over agricultural or hunting land without written consent is now illegal. Florida House of Representatives Member Danny Alvarez said the measure ensures farmers are protected. "Our farmers and hunters are the backbone of Florida's heritage, and they deserve to be protected from those who would use drones to intimidate and disrupt them. I'm glad to see Commissioner Simpson lead forward and fight back against those who would try to cause them harm,' shared Rep. Alvarez Drones have been used by activists looking to monitor poaching and illegal deforestation and keep a watchful eye on zoos and aquariums. In 2013, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) launched a drone campaign to track illegal hunting in Massachusetts. They've also been used to get a bird's-eye view of factory farms in the midwest. However, no major news sources have reported on any Florida farmers being harassed by drones. In fact, farmers are beginning to use drones to detect pests and signs of stress in crops. The bill also protects 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs. Under the bill, local governments are banned from zoning changes that make it harder for 4-H and FFA programs to operate. Schools can now classify on-campus barns and gardens as 'agricultural,' shielding student livestock projects from zoning disputes and even providing scholarships for FFA dues. And a bill provision called 'Florida Farmer Financial Protection Act' bars lenders from denying credit to producers because of environmental, social or governance (ESG) standards and lets farmers sue if they suspect discrimination. Anthony DiMarco, executive vice-president of government relations at the Florida Bankers Association, was reported to have objected to the provision, saying it would increase lawsuits against lenders, bar banks from cutting ties with high-risk clients such as medical-marijuana firms and encourage other industries to demand the same legal weapon. With fluoride on its way out, labels changing, drones grounded and lenders on notice, Florida's farm bill is redrawing the state's agricultural landscape — leaving dentists, plant-based brands and bankers bracing for what comes next. Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Robert Kiyosaki warns of a 'Greater Depression' coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 'easy-money' assets will bring in 'great wealth'. How to get in now Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Lawmakers move forward on controversial bill that would impact drinking water for millions of people: 'This is about your liberty'
The state of Florida is nearing the signing of a bill that would lead to the removal of fluoride from its water supply. On April 29, the Florida House of Representatives passed SB 700, also known as the Florida Farm Bill, by nearly 60 votes. The legislation is geared toward supporting the state's agriculture industry. This includes protecting farmers from discriminatory lending practices, reducing their financial burden, and promoting consumer protections. Included in the bill is a provision that bars local governments from including "the use of any additive in a public water system which does not meet the definition of a water quality additive." Rep. Danny Alvarez, who co-sponsored the bill, applauded its passing in the Senate. While speaking to the News Service of Florida, Alvarez pointed to the bill's protection of individuals. "This is not about fluoride," Alvarez said. "This is about your liberty." The bill awaits Gov. Ron DeSantis' signature. According to the American Cancer Society, fluoride was introduced to community water supplies in 1945 to improve the dental health of residents. While opponents have questioned the safety of fluoride in water, studies have shown that the additive does not cause cancer. Dr. Bert Hughes, a dentist and former president of the Alachua County Dental Association, noted the adverse effects that the bill will have on impoverished communities in Florida. "Adding fluoride to water is one of the top 10 public health achievements in our country," Hughes told The Gainesville Sun. How often do you worry about the quality of your drinking water? Never Sometimes Often Always Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. "We look at different communities around Gainesville like High Springs and Alachua, and I see a lot of children and you can see the difference in the rate of decay and how it presents itself," added Hughes. "What's good about fluoride water is that it actually gets within your system and when teeth are forming, it forms a harder structure that is more resistant to decay versus applying it topically." As the Sun reported, Gainesville Regional Utilities said it would comply with the order. The utility will stop adding fluoride to its drinking water in July. After Utah, Florida is the second state in the United States to ban the addition of fluoride in drinking water. In a May 6 news release, DeSantis signaled his intention to sign SB 700. "The Free State of Florida means freedom from governments or private actors unilaterally applying chemicals or geoengineering to people or public spaces," DeSantis said. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
USA Today
16-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Two states have now passed fluoride bans. These other ones introduced bills.
Two states have now passed fluoride bans. These other ones introduced bills. Show Caption Hide Caption Florida joins Utah in banning fluoride from public water systems Florida is the second state to take steps toward ending fluoridation in public water systems. Utah became the first in March. Scripps News Following a push by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and another Republican-led state, Florida this week banned the long-standing practice of adding fluoride to public water systems. Florida's Gov. Ron DeSantis, on May 15, signed the 2025 "Florida Farm Bill," which removes fluoride from the state's legal definition of acceptable "water quality additives." Fluoride, a naturally occurring element, is found in water, soil, air and some foods, helps prevent dental cavities and tooth decay. In a measure opposed by dentists and medical organizations but praised by Kennedy, the secretary of U.S. Health and Human Services, and others questioning it's safety, Utah became the first state to ban fluoride earlier this year. The new legislation was signed into law by Republican Gov. Spencer Cox on March 29 after being approved by the Utah State Senate in late February. Why are states banning fluoride in public water? How many states have nixed the mineral from drinking water? What other states could follow in their footsteps? Here's what to know. Opinion: DeSantis bans fluoride in Florida water, following RFK Jr.'s pro-tooth decay lead Which states have banned fluoride? As of May 16, two states had banned fluoride from public drinking water. Utah : Republican state lawmakers Rep. Stephanie Gricius and Sen. Kirk A. Cullimore sponsored the bill, which was signed by Cox and went into effect May 7. : Republican state lawmakers Rep. Stephanie Gricius and Sen. Kirk A. Cullimore sponsored the bill, which was signed by Cox and went into effect May 7. Florida: The bill, introduced by Republican state Sen. Keith Truenow, was signed by DeSantis on May 15 and is set to go into effect on July 1. Exclusive: As RFK Jr. targets fluoride, Texas is coming for kids toothpaste Which states have anti-fluoride bills on the table? Several other states have introduced bills that would curb the use of fluoride in water. They include: Lawmakers in other states including North Dakota, Arkansas, Tennessee, Montana and New Hampshire saw anti-fluoride legislation effort but the bill either failed or was tabled and missed deadline for the year. What is fluoride? Fluoride is an inorganic, tooth health-boosting mineral that helps prevent cavities and strengthens teeth. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has touted fluoridation as one of the 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. The CDC maintains that fluoridated water is both safe and cost-effective. The mineral has been added to public water supplies for decades in the U.S. and to dental products including toothpaste, as a dental cavities prevention measure. Why are some states banning fluoride in water? Kennedy, who was appointed by President Donald Trump as the nation's top health adviser despite having no medical training under his belt, has led a renewed charge against adding fluoride to water. In November, Kennedy announced on X the Trump administration would "advise all U.S water systems to remove fluoride from public water," citing unconfirmed health concerns including arthritis, cancer and IQ loss. Earlier this week, federal health officials said they are beginning to remove ingestible fluoride supplements for children from the market. Dig deeper: FDA moves to take fluoride supplements for children off the market How much fluoride is safe in public water? The U.S. Public Health Service recommends public water systems contain a fluoride level of .7 milligrams per liter of water. The World Health Organization's recommended limit for fluoride in drinking water is 1.5 milligrams per liter. Federal public health agencies recommend public water systems be calibrated to less than half the fluoride levels which this research links to lower IQ in children. Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge Ken Alltucker and Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@ and follow her on X @nataliealund.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
DeSantis signs fluoride ban bill in Dade City concerning dentists
DADE CITY, Fla. (WFLA) – Florida is now the second state in the country to ban fluoride in tap water, following Utah. Gov. Ron DeSantis held a bill-signing event in Dade City on Thursday. That's where he made the Florida 'Farm Bill' law, which includes the fluoridation ban. 'Local governments cannot engage in this fluoride forced medication,' DeSantis said. It's a conversation in the state that picked up steam last year when Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo visited local leaders to share his concerns. Some of those were echoed by the governor before he signed the bill. 'There's risks associated with that for pregnant women, for young people, and for kids.,' DeSantis said. The crowd mixed with ranchers and farmers, who were present for the bill signing event, showed their support through applause. The governor said he also has support from the Trump Administration. 'I think this fluoride thing is important. We're leading the way on it. We got kudos from the HHS secretary, RFK Jr, and I know a lot of people were happy to see that,' DeSantis said. Dentists have pushed back on this movement against fluoride in public water. Dr. Aura Cisneros with Suncoast Community Health Center fears low-income families will suffer more with this ban. 'The return of investment is substantial too because for every $1 we are investing in water fluoridation, communities can save easily $38 in dental treatment costs,' Cisneros said. The dentist also gave her recommendations for what people can do who are concerned about fluoride not being in the public water supply. 'People are going to be needing to search for more preventive treatment like the use of fluoride rinses, fluoridated water that is bottled, they will need to brush and floss their teeth a little bit more often,' Cisneros said. The Florida Farm Bill has other measures that have become state law. That includes the bills' call to ban labels like 'plant-based meat' or 'almond milk' from being able to state they are 'meat' or 'milk'. However, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said it'll take a few other southeastern states to join Florida for that label ban to be able to take effect. Here is the language of the bill: CS/CS/CS/SB 700 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Thursday's Mini-Report, 5.15.25
Today's edition of quick hits. * A closely watched case: 'Thursday's Supreme Court hearing over President Donald Trump's attempt to curb the constitutional guarantee of birthright citizenship technically wasn't about whether his attempt is legal. But while the hearing exposed his attempt's illegality and his administration's lack of confidence in its legality, it's unclear when the justices will issue a definitive ruling on whether it's legal or not.' * I'd caution against accepting claims like these at face value: 'The White House said today that Trump has signed an agreement with Qatar worth at least $1.2 trillion, though the White House didn't provide documentation to support that figure. NBC News is unable to verify its accuracy.' * Put this one in the 'developments China will love' category: 'The White House National Security Council has ordered U.S. agencies and departments to suspend work with the Group of 20 conference set to be hosted by South Africa this year, according to two people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe a government decision not yet made public.' * No good will come of the campaign against fluoride: 'Florida has become the second state to officially ban fluoride in public water. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed SB 700, also known as the Florida Farm Bill, into law Thursday. The bill doesn't specifically mention the word 'fluoride,' but it effectively bans the mineral by preventing 'the use of certain additives in a water system.' It will go into effect July 1.' * The latest in a series of related reversals: 'The Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesday reinstated 328 federal employees who faced terminations, including those involved in screening for 'black lung' disease in coal miners and for health issues in 9/11 first responders.' * We can only hope the impressive Biden-era progress on fentanyl deaths continues: 'Overdose deaths in the United States fell by nearly 30,000 last year, the government reported on Wednesday, the strongest sign yet that the country is making progress against one of its deadliest, most intractable public health crises.' * Buckle up: 'The US attorney's office in Washington, DC, is hoping for a new era of relative calm as the top federal prosecutor in the nation's capital switches from one outspoken, controversial ally of the president to another. Former Fox News host and newly tapped interim US Attorney Jeanine Pirro took her oath of office on Wednesday and now leads one of the most powerful federal prosecution offices in the country.' * The congressman probably could've handled this effort better: 'A long-shot effort by Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar to force an impeachment vote against President Donald Trump was abruptly pulled Wednesday evening after a group of Democrats signaled they would vote with Republicans to block the move. Moments before a planned vote on a motion to table Thanedar's impeachment resolution — a procedure that would have effectively killed it for the time being — the Michigan Democrat reversed course and opted not to call up the resolution for floor consideration.' See you tomorrow. This article was originally published on
