Oklahoma Senate Committee Moves Forward with Bill to Eliminate Harmful Additives in Food and Medicine: A Step Towards Healthier Living!

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — A new bill in Oklahoma aims to improve the quality of food and medicine by removing harmful additives. State Senator Kristen Thompson from Edmond introduced this legislation, which recently passed through the Senate Agriculture and Wildlife Committee.

Thompson believes Oklahoma can lead the way in promoting healthier options. She wants to eliminate 21 specific dyes and additives found in food and medicine. By removing these substances, she hopes to provide safer choices for residents.

On Monday, Thompson made changes to the bill’s title, allowing for further adjustments. This legislation, known as SB4, includes a deadline for compliance: companies must remove the banned additives from food by January 15, 2027, and from medicine by January 18, 2028.

The State Board of Agriculture will create rules to enforce these changes. Companies that don’t comply may face penalties and fines. However, some committee members expressed worries about the financial impact on consumers. State Senator Carri Hicks pointed out that reformulating products could increase prices, burdening families already facing economic challenges.

State Senator Casey Murdock raised concerns about government overreach, questioning whether it’s appropriate to dictate what is allowed in food. In response, Thompson clarified her intent. “This isn’t about banning foods,” she explained. “We’re saying we no longer want toxic chemicals in what we consume. The goal is to promote safety without limiting choice.”

The committee approved the bill with a strong majority, voting 10 to 1. It now heads to the Senate floor for further discussion.

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Oklahoma,Senate committee,Harmful additives,Food and medicine,Kristen Thompson,SB4,Manufacturers,Government overreach