Polk Times

Reps. Scott Franklin and Debbie Wasserman Schultz have reintroduced the Defending Domestic Orange Juice Production Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at updating regulations to support Florida's citrus industry. The legislation has the backing of the entire Florida Delegation.

Rep. Scott Franklin emphasized the need for regulatory changes, stating, "Outdated standards and needless red tape are standing in the way of Florida citrus’s big comeback." He highlighted that growers face challenges from foreign competition due to slow FDA regulatory processes.

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz noted that pests, diseases, and extreme weather contribute to declining brix levels in oranges but stressed that "this bill would provide our farmers and processors with flexibility to keep producing the world’s best oranges."

Rep. Kat Cammack expressed her support for the act, acknowledging challenges such as hurricanes and citrus greening that growers have faced. She stated her commitment to supporting Florida's orange producers.

The legislation aims to change the brix standard set by the FDA from 10.5 percent to 10 percent for not-from-concentrate pasteurized orange juice. Rep. Laurel Lee pointed out that this adjustment is necessary due to increased imports of foreign orange juice affecting domestic producers.

Rep. Darren Soto voiced his support for accommodating recent challenges faced by growers through changes in regulation, while Rep. Gus Bilirakis called for removing unnecessary barriers preventing farmers from competing effectively.

Congressman Neal Dunn highlighted the industry's recovery efforts following natural disasters and emphasized Washington's role in improving regulatory standards.

Matt Joyner of Florida Citrus Mutual praised Reps. Franklin and Wasserman Schultz for their continued advocacy, noting that modernizing brix levels is crucial for meeting consumer preferences and supporting domestic supply.

The proposed legislation directs the FDA to adjust its requirements so oranges below 10.5 percent brix can be used without compromising taste or nutritional value while increasing industry flexibility.

In 2022, a petition was filed by Florida Citrus Processors Association and Florida Citrus Mutual requesting this revision from the FDA. The act was initially introduced in 2023 with full delegation support during an Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee hearing urging swift action from federal authorities.