Committee considers HB327 to require folic-acid fortification of corn masa flour

Chair Pinckney told the committee HB327 would require fortification of corn masa flour with folic acid to prevent neural-tube defects, noting that prior fortification of enriched cereal grains reduced defects nationally. "HB 3 37 is about giving Delaware families confidence that when a newborn faces the most serious medical challenge, the right level of care is clearly defined, consistently staffed, and immediately available," the chair said while framing the bill as a prevention and equity measure.

Supporters including Nemours Children's Health and pediatric neurosurgeons testified in favor. Kristen Dwyer (Nemours) said the bill addresses a clear prevention gap for communities relying on corn-masa products. Dr. Hassan Akbari, a pediatric neurosurgeon participating virtually, described lifetime medical costs for spina bifida as high and told the committee that fortification is a cost-effective prevention strategy.

Proponents cited research showing folic-acid fortification has historically reduced neural-tube defects and argued HB327 would close a gap that has left some populations less protected.

Committee members did not record opposition in the transcript and public testimony was uniformly supportive of the fortification requirement.