Monday, 12 May 2025

RFK Jr. Effect? Republican Governor Signs Legislation Banning Toxic Ingredients In School Lunches

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Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed legislation banning artificial dyes in school lunches.

” Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin today signed 185 pieces of legislation, including HB 1910 and SB 1289 carried by Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent and Senator Emily Jordan prohibiting public elementary and secondary schools from serving any food that contains specific color additives for school meals or competitive food. This legislation strengthens Virginia’s educational system to ensure continued health and prosperity in the Children of the Commonwealth,” a press release from Youngkin’s office read.

“I’m encouraged by this truly non-partisan effort that started with Parents stepping forward and saying let’s work together to provide healthier food choices for our kids during the school day,” Youngkin said.

“HB1910 and SB1289 are grassroots bills at their best and provide Virginia families with healthier options for school meals,” he added.

Per Youngkin’s office:

Legislators issued the following statements on the bill signing:

“Today was a historic moment in the Commonwealth and we became the second state in the nation to pass legislation banning harmful food dyes in K-12 schools,” said Senator Jordan. “Every child in Virginia deserves to start the day with a nutritious meal that will fuel their academic success. This momentous legislation was championed by parents across our state that want the healthiest options for their children. It was an honor to work with Governor Youngkin on this legislation and be the voice for supporting children’s nutritional health.”

“Today is a great day for parents, teachers, our children and all Virginians as the Commonwealth becomes a national leader in protecting students from the myriad of artificial dye prevalent in our food,” said Delegate Pugh Kent. “As a mom, ensuring our children are fueled to learn during valuable educational time is not only important, it is imperative. Thank you to all my colleagues in the General Assembly for their bipartisan support of this legislation, and thank you, Governor Youngkin for your steadfast resolve in supporting parents and our children’s health.”

“Healthy food for our children should be our top priority. In my first ceremonial bill signing from the 2025 session, I am honored to support Virginia’s parents and students by signing bills HB1910 and SB1289 to remove artificial dyes from school lunches,” Youngkin said.

Virginia Mercury reports:

The legislation bans seven synthetic color additives from meals and snacks served in Virginia’s public elementary and secondary schools, including those sold in vending machines or à la carte lines.

But the ban won’t take effect right away. Schools and food vendors have until July 1, 2027, to adapt menus and sourcing, giving the Virginia Board of Education time to update its nutritional guidelines.

Supporters pointed to growing research linking artificial dyes — especially Red Dye 40 — to hyperactivity, attention issues, and even cancer risks in animal studies.

The dye, commonly found in cereals, chips, and desserts, is the most heavily used among synthetic food colors in the U.S., appearing in more than 36,000 products, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears emphasized the science behind the legislation, citing studies from the Cleveland Clinic, the Henry Ford Health Institute, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

“These additives are not simply harmless ingredients,” she said. “No, they are chemical compounds that affect learning, development and life health outcomes.”

Secretary of Health and Human Services Janet Vestal Kelly described the move as a response to public demand: “The food industry says that they make what consumers ask for, and today, Virginians are sending a clear signal — that we want healthier, safer options, especially when it comes to our children.”


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