SCS/SB 308 - This act creates the "Missouri Calcium Initiative". The term "governmental entity" is defined as the state of Missouri, its departments, agencies, boards, commissions and institutions, and all school districts of the state.

A purchasing agent of a governmental entity, which purchases food or beverages to serve in a building owned or operated by the entity, must give preference to high calcium foods and beverages that are equal to or lower in price than products of the same type and nutritional quality. If a state institution determines that the high calcium foods or beverages will interfere with the proper treatment and care of a patient, then the purchasing agent is not required to make such a purchase for the patient.

The provisions of the "Missouri Calcium Initiative" are in addition to any requirements placed upon a governmental entity by the United States Department of Agriculture under the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program.

For contracts entered into before July 1, 2003, the purchasing agent is not required to purchase high calcium foods and beverages if this would change the terms of the contract.

The provisions of this act will take effect on July 1, 2003.

This act is similar to HB 1033 (2002).
LORIE TOWE