S.B. No. 314 is a legislative act aimed at prohibiting certain food additives in free or reduced-price meals provided by school districts and open-enrollment charter schools in Texas. The bill introduces a new section, 33.9011, to the Education Code, which specifies that these institutions cannot serve meals containing specific harmful additives, including brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and various artificial colors and preservatives. The list includes 18 substances, and any additive that is substantially similar to those specified is also prohibited. Additionally, the bill clarifies that schools receiving a waiver under Section 7.056 will not be in violation of this prohibition.

The act is set to take effect for the 2026-2027 school year, with provisions that it applies only to contracts for food services entered into or renewed on or after September 1, 2026. The bill allows for immediate effect if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation reflects a commitment to improving the nutritional quality of meals provided to students, particularly those from low-income families.

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