Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills aimed at improving food assistance programs, reducing the consumption of processed foods among youth, and increasing access to healthy, locally grown foods across California. The legislation is part of an effort to address chronic disease issues in the state.

The new laws include AB 2316 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), which prohibits California schools from serving and selling foods containing synthetic food dye additives linked to health problems such as cancer, immune system damage, neurobehavioral issues, and hyperactivity. Another key piece of legislation is AB 660 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), which standardizes quality and safety date labels on food products to reduce food waste.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of these measures: "Our health is inextricably tied to the food we eat – but fresh, healthy foods aren’t always available or affordable for families. Today, we are refusing to accept the status quo, and making it possible for everyone, including school kids, to access nutritious, delicious food without harmful, and often addictive additives. By giving every child a healthy start, we can set them on the path to a future with less risk of obesity and chronic illness."

Research indicates that healthy school meals improve attendance, academic achievement, and overall health among children. California already exceeds federal standards for school food safety by limiting added sugars and sodium while promoting fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The state has also implemented universal school meals for all public school children through first-in-the-nation funding.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom highlighted the equity aspect of childhood nutrition: "Childhood nutrition is about health and equity. Through today’s legislation, we are taking essential steps to ensure all California children have access to healthy, delicious meals free from dangerous additives. This builds on the promises made through California Farm to School...setting them up for a healthier future."

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel praised the bipartisan support for AB 2316: “California is once again leading the nation when it comes to protecting our kids from dangerous chemicals that can harm their bodies...This bipartisan law will empower schools...and sends a strong message to manufacturers.”

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin expressed gratitude for Governor Newsom's approval of AB 660: “Having to wonder whether our food is still good is an issue that we all have struggled with...Today’s signing...is a monumental step...to end consumer confusion around expiration date labels.”

Additional legislation signed includes:

- AB 518 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – CalFresh: data, increased participation.

- AB 1830 by Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) – Corn masa flour and wet corn masa products: folic acid fortification.

- AB 2033 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-San Bernardino) – Public postsecondary education: electronic benefits transfer cards: basic needs services and resources.

- AB 2786 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Certified mobile farmers’ markets.

- AB 3229 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-Milpitas) – California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project: report.

- SB 1448 by Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield) – Farm to Community Food Hub Program: California Agricultural Land Equity Task Force.