BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                        S.B. 555

                                                                                                                                            By: Lucio

Government Organization

6/29/2007

Enrolled

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Many studies have demonstrated the health-related benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption.  Consumption of fruits and vegetables promotes healthy weights and prevents many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.  Unfortunately, only 23 percent of Texans report consuming the recommended level of fruits and vegetables.  For this reason, additional resources are needed to advocate better nutrition and health through fruit and vegetable consumption.

S.B. 555 designates April as Texas Fruit and Vegetable Month, to be used to educate the public about the importance of consuming the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Subchapter D, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.103, as follows:

Sec. 662.103.  TEXAS FRUIT AND VEGETABLE MONTH.  Declares April to be Texas Fruit and Vegetable Month (month), to promote awareness of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables and to encourage Texans to consume more fruits and vegetables.  Requires the month to be regularly observed by appropriate celebrations and activities.

SECTION 2.  Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2007.