Texas House Bill HB2831

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to disclosure of calorie content and nutrition information by certain food establishments; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

The implementation of HB2831 has the potential to significantly affect state health regulations by aligning Texas state law with federal requirements. By mandating nutritional labeling, the bill seeks to promote healthier eating habits among consumers. Additionally, it may compel food establishments to reformulate their menu items or provide more transparent information to adhere to the new guidelines. This could lead to a broader shift towards healthier options in food establishments, benefiting public health outcomes in the long term.

Summary

House Bill 2831 focuses on the disclosure of calorie content and nutrition information by specific food establishments in Texas. The bill amends the Health and Safety Code, introducing rules for the nutritional labeling of standard menu items. Food establishments that fall under the scope of this bill are required to comply with federal regulations regarding nutrition information disclosure as outlined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The primary aim of the bill is to enhance consumer awareness about the nutritional value of the food they purchase and consume.

Contention

Despite its careful structuring around existing federal laws, there could be points of contention surrounding the administrative penalties imposed for non-compliance with the new standards. The bill allows for fines up to $500 for violations, which may be viewed as excessive by some small business owners who may struggle to absorb these costs. Critics might argue that such penalties could disproportionately affect smaller establishments compared to larger chains, raising concerns about fair treatment across different types of food service businesses.