The bill, HB 2164, introduces several significant changes to the regulations governing food served in schools and the physical education requirements for students. Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, schools participating in food service programs will be prohibited from serving meals that contain specific food additives, including brominated vegetable oil and various artificial colors. Schools will be required to certify compliance with this regulation during inspections and, if they fail to meet the requirements, must submit a corrective action plan and notify parents of any violations. Additionally, the bill mandates that each school district provide a minimum of 30 minutes of daily organized recess for elementary students, which cannot be withheld for disciplinary reasons.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a Kansas state physical fitness test aligned with the presidential physical fitness test, which must be administered annually to students in grades one through twelve starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill also amends existing laws regarding the school term, changing the terminology from "pupils" to "students" and allowing for the inclusion of organized recess time as part of the school term. These changes aim to enhance student health and well-being through improved nutrition and increased physical activity.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 74-5605
S Sub for: 22-4901, 22-4902
Conference Committee Report - Fri, Mar 27, 2026: 72-3404, 72-3115
As introduced: 74-5605