AN ACT relating to calorie information.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julie Adams

Kentucky food service establishments must prominently display a sign stating calorie information is available and that a no-calorie menu is available on request or online.

to Committee on Committees (S)

#federallawsandregulations #foodsandbeverages #localgovernment #localmandate #mentalhealth #publichealth #stateagencies

Summary of SB 144 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky)

Purpose and intent

Establishes a new statutory requirement related to calorie information for food service establishments.

Aligns with federal law by mandating certain disclosures while adding a consumer-friendly option to obtain information without calories.

Key provisions

Creates a new section within KRS 217.280 to 217.390.

Requirement for food service establishments that, under federal law (21 C.F.R. § 101.11), must provide calorie information for standard menu items:

Must display a printed notice in a prominent place that is easily seen by customers.
The notice must be on a sign measuring at least 8.5 inches by 11 inches.
The sign must state that the establishment’s menu is also available without calorie information.

Availability of the no-calorie information:

Upon customer request.
On the establishment’s website.

Affected entities

Food service establishments subject to federal calorie-information requirements.

Local health officials and county/city attorneys may engage in enforcement if needed.

The Secretary of Health and Family Services, local health officers, and their agents enforce the provision.

Enforcement and procedural aspects

SB 144 does not broaden inspection authority or mandate new inspections.

Existing inspection schedules and processes remain in place under current law.

Violations related to the new disclosure could be identified during routine inspections.

If violations are unresolved, they may be referred to a county or city attorney for enforcement, potentially increasing administrative or legal costs.

Overall expected impact on local government is indeterminate but presumed minimal to moderate for enforcement workload, depending on how many establishments are noncompliant.

Fiscal and implementation considerations

Local government fiscal impact is indeterminable but expected to be minimal for routine enforcement.

Administrative actions (documentation, hearings, referrals) could occur for some violations, but the number of affected establishments is unknown.

No additional inspections or expansion of enforcement authority beyond current statutory framework.

Timeline and status

Introduced in the Senate on February 2, 2026.

Referred to the Committee on Committees (S).

Practical takeaway

Under SB 144, Kentucky food service establishments subject to federal calorie labeling requirements must prominently display a sign indicating that calorie information is available and that the menu can be accessed without calorie information either on request or via the establishment’s website.

The goal is to enhance consumer access to calorie information while ensuring an alternative for customers who prefer not to view calories.