Bill > HB625

This bill requires school districts and open-enrollment charter schools in Texas to provide halal food options for breakfast and lunch programs when requested by a student or their parent/guardian. Halal, which is defined in the Texas Business & Commerce Code, refers to food prepared according to Islamic dietary guidelines. The bill mandates that schools must offer these halal meal options beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, ensuring that students who follow Islamic dietary restrictions can have appropriate meal choices in public school settings. The legislation takes effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or otherwise will become effective on September 1, 2025. This bill represents an effort to accommodate religious dietary practices and provide more inclusive food services in public schools, recognizing the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of students.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB625