Louisiana bill inspired by Make America Healthy Again movement heads to governor

Senate Bill 14, authored by Sen. Patrick McMath (R-Covington), aims to change nutrition in the state. It initially proposed a ban on purchasing sodas using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits until amendments were adopted on the Senate floor on May 6.

McMath said the proposal was removed from the bill after Gov. Jeff Landry’s executive order directing the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to submit a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to exclude the purchase of sodas and candy using SNAP benefits in the state.

Now, the bill proposes new requirements that aim to educate people about ingredients in their food, prevent artificial colors and additives from being served to students and provide education requirements for some working in the health care industry.

“I think we need to send a message to the nation that Louisiana is serious about our personal health outcomes and that nutrition is important,” McMath said on the Senate floor May 6. 

MAHA was co-founded by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and encourages states to take legislative action on public health issues. In a March 28 post on X, Landry said Louisiana would help lead the movement. Kennedy responded, saying the governor had supported the effort “from when it took pure courage.”

What to know about SB 14

McMath said the states need to create “as much chaos as possible” to push companies in the food industry to change ingredient lists. 

Schools would be banned from serving food or drinks containing specific artificial colors and additives to students. Additionally, schools that get state funding would be required to buy food produced within Louisiana “to the extent practicable.” An exception would be allowed for concession stands and vending machines on campuses.

New food labeling requirements for manufacturers would include using a QR code to direct people to a webpage with information about ingredients in products.

Menus at restaurants would be required to have a disclaimer for seed oils. According to the bill, the disclaimer would read: “Some menu items may contain or be prepared using seed oils.”

Physicians and physician assistants in select practices would be required to complete continuing education on nutrition and metabolic health every few years.

The bill went through final passage in the Louisiana House on June 2, and amendments proposed were concurred in the Senate unanimously on June 3. SB 14 now heads to the governor’s desk. Landry has hinted that Kennedy could be present for the bill signing.

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