Senate Bill 25, introduced by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R), has passed in the Texas Senate. The Bill, set to go into effect in 2027, aims to improve public health, nutrition education, and physical activity for Texans.
While speaking to the Senate, Sen. Kolkhorst expressed the urgent need for change in the Nation’s approach to health and wellness.
“Today, 60 percent of Americans have chronic diseases, and we are spending $4.3 million a year, that is five times our military budget,” said Kolkhorst.
One of the key provisions of SB 25 requires food labels to warn Texas consumers about the ingredients banned in other countries. This provision is designed to provide consumers with greater transparency and allow them to make informed decisions about the products they purchase.
“We are not going to ban anything, that is not what we do here, but we are going to allow our constituents to have information,” explained Kolkhorst, “The market will correct itself, maybe the consumer doesn’t care, but maybe they do. It’s a step forward.”
SB 25 also mandates daily physical education for students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The bill also prohibits the removal of recess, physical education, or sports as a form of discipline, reinforcing the importance of consistent physical activity for children’s development.
For high school students and those in institutions of Higher learning, SB 25 requires nutrition to equip young adults with the knowledge to make healthier food choices. Additionally, the bill mandates updated nutrition training for physicians, medical residents, nurses, physician assistants, and medical students across Texas.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) released a press statement following the passage of SB 25 calling the bill a priority for the state and reaffirming the importance of keeping Texas healthy.
“Texas is the gold standard of American exceptionalism,” Stated Patrick. “It is more important than ever that Texans are fit and healthy to power our state forward.”
Lt Gov Dan Patrick (R) continued by commending Sen. Kolkhorst for her leadership in bringing the bill to fruition, recognizing the significant impact the legislation will have on public health in Texas.
“I thank Sen. Kolkhorst for her leadership on this critical issue,” Patrick said.
As Senate Bill 25 moves forward, it represents a step in reshaping Texas’ approach to public health, education, and consumer protection.
