Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1533

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/20/11  
Introduced
3/10/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/5/11  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to restrictions on school districts making available to students food containing industrially produced trans fat.

Impact

The implementation of SB1533 is expected to commence with the 2012-2013 school year, marking a significant shift in school food policies. Schools will need to revise their food offerings to comply with the new regulations, which could involve eliminating certain popular snack items that contain trans fats. This move is designed to improve the dietary habits of students and align school food services with modern nutritional guidelines aimed at combating childhood obesity and related health issues.

Summary

SB1533 aims to restrict Texas school districts from making available to students any food containing industrially produced trans fat. This bill introduces specific definitions, designating industrially produced trans fats as those found in items like vegetable shortening, margarine, and partially hydrogenated oils. The legislation seeks to enhance the nutritional standards within school food services, reflecting a growing concern over the health implications of trans fats, particularly regarding their association with heart disease and other health issues in children.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes provisions that allow exceptions for foods served as part of the United States Department of Agriculture meal programs, as well as foods containing zero grams of trans fat per serving. This compromise acknowledges potential challenges schools may face in sourcing compliant food products while aiming to uphold public health standards. However, it also raises questions about the enforcement and monitoring of compliance, especially regarding food vendors that may not adhere strictly to the new regulations.

Companion Bills

TX HB3467

Identical Relating to restrictions on school districts making available to students food containing industrially produced trans fat.

Previously Filed As

TX SB29

Relating to the transfer of students between public schools.

TX SB418

Relating to the transfer of students between public schools.

TX HB4148

Relating to the transfer of students between public schools.

TX HB4112

Relating to the availability of free prekindergarten programs in public schools.

TX HB2546

Relating to the scheduling of the first day of school for students by school districts.

TX HB4746

Relating to the eligibility of a school district or open-enrollment charter school to receive a grant from the Department of Agriculture to provide surplus agricultural products to certain students.

TX HB1005

Relating to the assignment of public school students enrolled in certain school districts to an uncertified teacher.

TX SB829

Relating to cottage food production operations.

TX HB1267

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB3011

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.