Panel advances bill to place UF Diabetes Institute in statute, cites $10 million state investment

The Higher Education Budget Subcommittee on Thursday reported House Bill 901 favorably following a sponsor presentation and no recorded debate.

Representative Kinkart Johnson said HB 901 "establishes the University of Florida Diabetes Institute in statute to strengthen Florida's leadership in diabetes research, treatment, and education." He told the committee that diabetes affects "more than 2,000,000 Floridians" and imposes "tens of billions of dollars each year in medical expensive expenses and lost productivity," and noted that "the legislature invested $10,000,000 last year in the UF Diabetes Institute." Johnson described the bill as a statutory placement rather than creation of a new program, saying it would help the state compete for federal research dollars and coordinate statewide efforts.

There were no amendments or committee questions on the bill. Two appearance cards were filed in support: Monica Rodriguez of University of Florida Health Corporation and Shontae Jones of AARP of Florida; both waived oral testimony.

After the sponsor closed, staff called the roll and the chair announced HB 901 "reported favorably." The transcript does not record individual vote-by-name in the hearing; the subcommittee moved the bill forward and no opposition was entered on the record.