BILL ANALYSIS
By: Lucio
Culture, Recreation, & Tourism
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
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.
As proposed, S.B. 555 designates April as 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
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
S.B. 555 amends Subchapter D, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.103 declaring 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.
EFFECTIVE DATE
Upon passage, or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act takes effect September 1, 2007.