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Reaction mixed to Florida school nutrition bill

Miami Herald – March 15, 2001

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam’s proposed legislation for his department to take over responsibility for school nutrition got a mixed review from the State Board of Education.

The legislation would strip the board of that authority if Florida also obtains a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Board member Roberto Martinez told Putnam, who appeared before the board Tuesday, that he opposed the measure because the Department of Agriculture’s avowed purpose is to protect Florida’s agriculture industry while the board’s focus is children.

The board did not take a vote but at least one member voiced support for Putnam’s plan.

Putnam said he could make improving children’s nutrition, by including more Florida produce on school lunch menus, a top priority whereas the board focuses more on other school issues.

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