Texans Need to Be Healthier, Lawmakers Say
The Texas Senate has proposed three bills aimed at addressing the causes of chronic illnesses, increasing nutritious food options in schools, and educating Texans to make healthier decisions. Lawmakers made the announcement at a Tuesday news conference, highlighting the importance of these initiatives.
Six Things to Know About the Proposed Legislation
- Banning Certain Additives from School Meals: One bill would prohibit school districts and charter schools from using certain additives in free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches. Over 3 million students in the state eat these meals.
- Expanding P.E. Requirements: Schools currently require grade K-5 students to receive at least 30 minutes of physical education daily and 6-8 graders to participate in 30 minutes of physical activity daily for four semesters. One proposal would expand that to six semesters for sixth through eighth graders.
- Developing Nutritional Guidelines for the State: A seven-member advisory committee would be established to "develop nutritional guidelines for residents of the state." This committee would examine the connection between ultra-processed foods and chronic diseases and provide education on the effects of ultra-processed foods on health.
- Nutrition Classes for Medical Students: One bill mandates that health-related higher education institutions develop required nutrition lessons for their medical students or those in health-related majors. This includes Texas physicians pursuing continued medical education.
- Warning Labels on Certain Foods: Manufacturers would have to issue warning labels on food with artificial color, food additives, or other chemical ingredients that are banned by Canada, the European Union, or the United Kingdom.
- Banning SNAP Recipients from Buying Candy and Soda: One bill would prohibit those on the federal assistance program that helps low-income families from buying certain foods, including energy drinks, sweetened beverages, carbonated drinks, candy, potato chips, and cookies.
Bills Introduced in Senate
The proposed legislation includes:
- SB 25, titled "Making Texas Healthy Again," which echoes President Donald Trump’s movement to "Make America Healthy Again."
- SB 314, which prohibits school districts and charter schools from using certain additives in free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches.
- SB 379, which would ban those on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from buying certain foods, including candy and soda.
Conclusion
The proposed legislation aims to address the growing concerns about chronic illnesses, nutrition, and education in Texas. By introducing these bills, lawmakers hope to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of Texans.
FAQs
Q: What are the main goals of the proposed legislation?
A: The main goals of the proposed legislation are to address the causes of chronic illnesses, increase nutritious food options in schools, and educate Texans to make healthier decisions.
Q: What are some of the specific measures proposed?
A: Some of the specific measures proposed include banning certain additives from school meals, expanding P.E. requirements, developing nutritional guidelines for the state, and providing nutrition classes for medical students.
Q: What is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
A: SNAP is a federal assistance program that helps low-income families buy food and groceries.
Q: What is the purpose of the proposed ban on SNAP recipients buying certain foods?
A: The purpose of the proposed ban is to encourage healthy eating habits and reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases among low-income families.
