The proposed bill establishes the Be Ready Task Force within the Department of Health to develop a comprehensive statewide response strategy aimed at preventing the spread of avian influenza, particularly in livestock, and preparing for potential human-to-human transmission. The task force will consist of various members, including physicians specializing in infectious diseases, representatives from emergency management, county health departments, water management districts, and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The task force is required to meet as necessary and may conduct meetings through teleconference or electronic means. Members will serve without compensation but may receive reimbursement for travel expenses.
The task force is tasked with developing recommendations on several key areas, including monitoring and reporting livestock outbreaks, wastewater monitoring, cost-effective statewide testing, and implementing a statewide response to prevent the spread of avian influenza. A report of these recommendations must be submitted to the Governor and legislative leaders by December 1, 2025, after which the task force will be dissolved. The bill emphasizes the urgency of addressing the rising cases of avian influenza and aims to enhance public health preparedness in Florida.