OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Neils Hays, R-Muskogee, today expressed strong support for Gov. Kevin Stitt’s new “Make Oklahoma Healthy Again” (MOHA) executive order, which targets artificial food additives and environmental toxins. He also reaffirmed his commitment to House Bill 1264, legislation he authored to address those same food dye concerns.

“These artificial dyes don’t add value to food and have been tied to behavioral and health concerns in children,” Hays said. “I introduced House Bill 1264 because parents deserve to know their kids' food is safe. I’m proud to stand with President Trump and now our state in taking this issue seriously.”

During the 2025 legislative session, Hays authored HB1264, which would prohibit the use of several synthetic food dyes, including Red Dye 40, Yellow 5 and Blue 1, commonly found in products marketed to children and linked to potential neurobehavioral effects.

“The MOHA initiative lays the groundwork for lasting change,” Hays said. “I look forward to continuing this work next session to ensure Oklahoma families have access to healthier, safer food options.”

The governor's executive order, part of a national campaign backed by President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr., directs the Oklahoma State Department of Health to review the safety of artificial food coloring, including Red Dye 40. It also establishes the MOHA Initiative and MOHA Advisory Council.

Although HB1264 did not receive a vote this session, it remains eligible for consideration next year in the Second Session of the Oklahoma 60th Legislature.

Hays encourages anyone concerned about food dyes to contact their legislators and ask them to sign on as co-authors in support of the bill.