Bill > HB642

This bill, known as the Georgia Dye Free School Meals Act, aims to prohibit public primary and secondary schools from serving or selling food and beverages containing specific synthetic dyes starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill identifies seven synthetic dyes (Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) that would be banned from school meals and snacks. The legislation is based on scientific research suggesting that these synthetic dyes may contribute to behavioral challenges in children, such as hyperactivity, inattention, restlessness, and aggression, which can negatively impact learning and educational participation. The Department of Education will be required to develop a standardized compliance certification form and maintain a public list of schools adhering to the new regulations. Importantly, the bill does not prevent parents or guardians from providing foods with synthetic dyes to their own children or for school and classroom events, focusing instead on school-provided meals and snacks. The underlying goal is to support children's cognitive and behavioral development by prioritizing nutritionally beneficial food options in schools.

Education

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70841