Bredesen Signs Executive Order Promoting Healthy Options for State Vending Machines

NASHVILLE – Governor Phil Bredesen today signed Executive Order No. 69 promoting healthy options for food and beverages sold through vending facilities on properties within the executive branch of state government. The order directs that guidelines be developed establishing minimum nutritional standards and standards for labeling and placement of food and beverages along with pricing and other incentives to encourage the purchase of items that meet these nutritional standards.

 

“Many of the health issues that face Tennesseans today are things that a prescription or a doctor’s appointment or health insurance can’t fix,” Bredesen said. “The state has spent the past several years investing in prevention strategies like GetFitTN to raise awareness and address behaviors that lead to chronic disease, including physical inactivity, nutrition and tobacco use. State employees deserve healthier food choices and ought to be the leaders in moving toward a healthier Tennessee.”

 

The executive order applies to all vending machines on public properties within the executive branch of state government that are serviced by licensed blind vendors, private third party vendors and private vending companies that operate on public properties under the authority of the Department of Human Services.

 

The departments of Finance and Administration, Health and Human Services, as well as appropriate blind vendor representatives, will develop and publish the nutritional guidelines. The Department of Human Services will amend written agreements with property management officials and existing vendors to incorporate the new guidelines and standards by January 1, 2011. All permits issued after January 1, 2011 will include the guidelines and minimum standards.     

 

The Department of Health will also publish recommendations for nutritional food and beverages provided to state employees at breaks, meetings, conferences and other work-related events held on public property.