Tennessee House Bill HJR1501

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/24/24
• Engrossed: 4/24/24
• Enrolled: 5/2/24
• Passed: 5/9/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION relative to almond milk and unfortified soy milk.

Impact

The resolution explicitly backs the inclusion of almond milk and unfortified soy milk within the spectrum of acceptable non-dairy beverages for children's diets, particularly in the context of federal Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. Currently, fortified soy milk is recognized for purchase using these benefits, while almond milk and other non-fortified options are excluded. HJR1501 proposes to increase awareness of these alternatives, potentially influencing future policy regarding WIC benefits and children's access to dietary choices that suit their health needs.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 1501 (HJR1501) is a resolution that acknowledges the importance of almond milk and unfortified soy milk as suitable alternatives for children with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The resolution highlights that children with these conditions require careful dietary management, often in consultation with healthcare providers. HJR1501 seeks to recognize and honor the non-dairy beverage industry for the production of these milk alternatives, thereby promoting healthy dietary choices for affected children.

Contention

While the resolution is largely supportive of the non-dairy beverage industry and their offerings, it does imply a necessary consideration for expanding WIC eligibility criteria to include almond milk and unfortified soy milk. Discussions around this topic may arise, particularly regarding nutritional standards and the implications of including these beverages in health programs aimed at vulnerable populations. Thus, while HJR1501 is not contentious in nature, the broader implications of dietary alternatives and their inclusion in federal aid programs could provoke debate among stakeholders.