Bill > H2496

This bill amends existing Massachusetts law to prohibit the sale or provision of competitive foods and non-sweetened carbonated water containing specific artificial food dyes during and shortly after the school day at public schools. Starting December 31, 2028, schools will be banned from selling foods or beverages containing seven specific food dyes (Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) from midnight before the school day until 30 minutes after the school day ends. However, the bill provides exceptions that allow schools to sell these foods with artificial dyes if they are sold: off school premises, on school premises at least a half-hour after the school day concludes, or during school-sponsored fundraisers and events like booster sales and concession stands. The bill appears aimed at promoting healthier food options for students by restricting access to foods with potentially harmful artificial coloring during the school day, while still providing flexibility for schools to sell such items at other times or events.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2496