SB 144 would require certain food service establishments that are already subject to federal calorie-posting rules under 21 C.F.R. sec. 101.11 to notify customers that a version of the menu without calorie information is available. The notice would have to be displayed prominently on a printed sign at least 8.5 by 11 inches in size, and it would state that the menu without calorie information can be provided upon customer request or accessed on the establishment’s website.
The bill does not change the underlying federal calorie-disclosure requirement; instead, it adds a state-level notice requirement for businesses covered by that federal rule. In practical terms, it would affect restaurants and other food service establishments that already post calorie counts, requiring them to add signage and potentially update websites or customer-service practices to make a non-calorie menu version available.
Impact
SB 144 would create a new section within KRS 217.280 to 217.390, adding a disclosure obligation for food service establishments covered by federal menu-calorie labeling rules. The bill would not alter the federal standard itself, but it would impose an additional Kentucky requirement for prominent signage and menu availability, affecting covered restaurants and similar establishments and their compliance practices.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears administrative and consumer-information oriented rather than controversial, with its main purpose being to inform customers that a calorie-free menu option exists.
Contention
The primary potential point of contention is the added compliance burden on food service establishments that already must meet federal calorie-posting requirements. Businesses may view the sign and website/menu availability requirement as an extra administrative step, while supporters would likely frame it as a transparency and customer-choice measure. Because no discussion transcripts or votes are available, specific arguments from legislators or stakeholders cannot be identified from the record provided.