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Bill

SB 117

NUTRITION: Prohibits the serving and selling of ultra-processed foods in public schools. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Beryl Amedée and 7 co-sponsors

Louisiana's SB 117 would ban ultra-processed foods in public schools but was vetoed by the Governor after legislative passage, stalling the nutrition policy initiative.

Vetoed by the Governor.
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Bill Summary · SB 117

Legislative bill overview

SB 117 would have prohibited Louisiana public schools from serving or selling ultra-processed foods to students. The bill passed both chambers of the legislature but was vetoed by the Governor on June 20, 2025, preventing it from becoming law.

Why is this important

School nutrition directly affects student health, academic performance, and long-term wellness outcomes. Ultra-processed foods are linked to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions, making this a public health policy decision affecting thousands of Louisiana schoolchildren and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and implementation challenges: "Ultra-processed foods" lacks a universally agreed scientific definition, creating ambiguity in enforcement and potential disputes over which products qualify
  • Cost and feasibility concerns: Sourcing and preparing whole foods is typically more expensive and labor-intensive than serving pre-packaged options, potentially straining school budgets already under fiscal pressure
  • Governor's veto reasoning: The veto suggests concerns about implementation costs, regulatory burden on schools, or conflicts with existing food service contracts—though the specific rationale wasn't publicly detailed in this summary

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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