BILL NUMBER: S3214A
SPONSOR: KAVANAGH
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to prohibiting the sale
of foods containing synthetic additives in schools
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The purpose of this bill is to prohibit the sale of foods and beverages
containing synthetic food dyes in New York public schools in order to
protect children's health and support a safer, more supportive learning
environment.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section one prohibits the sale of foods and beverages containing specif-
ic synthetic color additives in school meals.
Section two sets forth the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Synthetic food dyes have been linked to increased hyperactivity, atten-
tion deficits, and behavioral challenges in children, with growing
evidence suggesting that these additives can negatively impact develop-
ing brains. Removing these dyes from school foods is a critical step
toward creating a safer, healthier learning environment. California has
already passed a statewide ban on synthetic dyes in school meals, and
New York City has taken similar action. Extending this protection state-
wide in New York ensures that all public school students are shielded
from unnecessary chemical exposures that may impair their learning and
behavior.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
See S1239B/A1556B (Kavanagh/Kelles) of 2025.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law.

Statutes affected:
S3214: 198 agriculture and markets law, 199-a agriculture and markets law, 199-a(4) agriculture and markets law, 199-b agriculture and markets law