Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR118

Introduced
5/19/23  

Caption

Urging the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education to collaborate on conducting a Statewide study of school cafeteria services provided to every school district.

Impact

If enacted, HR118 could lead to significant changes in how school cafeteria services are managed and assessed at the state level. The outcome of the proposed study may inform future policies and funding decisions, ensuring that schools are equipped to meet the nutritional needs of students effectively. This could result in improved health outcomes for children, increased awareness of agricultural products, and potentially enhance educational outcomes related to nutrition education.

Summary

House Resolution 118 (HR118) urges the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education to collaborate on conducting a statewide study of school cafeteria services provided to every school district. This bill aims to evaluate the current state of cafeteria services and potentially address concerns related to food quality, nutrition, and the efficiency of such services across all districts. The focus on collaboration between two key departments highlights the complexity of cafeteria services, which intersect considerations of agriculture, health, and education.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR118 appears to be largely positive, with many stakeholders recognizing the need for a comprehensive examination of cafeteria services. Educators, parents, and health advocates seem to support the idea that better insights into cafeteria operations could lead to improved meals for students. However, some concerns are raised regarding the implications such studies might have on existing contracts with food service providers and the execution of necessary changes based on the findings.

Contention

Despite the general support, there are notable points of contention. Critics are concerned about the logistics and the potential costs associated with such a study. Some stakeholders question whether the collaboration between the Departments of Agriculture and Education will yield actionable results, or if it could lead to bureaucratic delays. Thus, while HR118 presents a progressive step toward improving school cafeteria services, it has to navigate these logistical challenges and manage expectations about its effectiveness.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HR80

Urging the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education to collaborate on conducting a Statewide study of school cafeteria services provided to every school district.

PA SB2556

Early Learning Collaborative Act; require the Department of Education to provide certain data on educational effects.

PA HB732

Early Learning Collaboratives; expand to provide in every school district by the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

PA HB1671

Early Learning Collaboratives; expand to provide in every school district by the start of the 2028-2029 school year.

PA HB1134

Early Learning Collaboratives; expand to provide in every school district by the start of the 2029-2030 school year.

PA HB55

School districts; require all schools to have epinephrine auto-injectors in every building and cafeteria.

PA HB251

School districts; require all schools to have epinephrine auto-injectors in every building and cafeteria.

PA HB339

School districts; require all schools to have epinephrine auto-injectors in every building and cafeteria.

PA HB134

School districts; require all schools to have epinephrine auto-injectors in every building and cafeteria.

PA SCR94

Requests the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Department of Education to implement a Farm to School Program and to assist schools with local procurement options for fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, and seafood.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.