Abbott signs the ‘Make Texas Healthy Again’ Act with RFK Jr.

Kennedy and Abbott Promote Health Initiative in Texas

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joined Texas Governor Greg Abbott to promote a new state law aimed at improving public health during an event in Austin on Wednesday.

The newly enacted Maha Method law restricts the use of federal food aid for purchasing soda and candy. It also prohibits certain additives in food and cuts off free school meals under specific conditions. Additionally, the law introduces stricter labeling requirements for food manufacturers.

“This will put Texas at the forefront of public health leadership,” Kennedy said alongside Abbott at the Texas Capitol. “Texas is embarking on a bold new path for health, and I encourage other states to take note.”

The new legislation, inspired by Kennedy’s Maha movement, has been informally dubbed “Make Texas Healthy Again.” Abbott signed the bill into effect last week, and it officially began this Monday.

“All Texas lawmakers are committed to setting the state on the right path toward healthiness,” Abbott remarked during the event. “These laws demonstrate that route.”

“We are no longer using taxpayer money to support our state’s chronic health issues,” he noted.

The law has heightened partisan tensions in Texas, although it initially gained bipartisan backing within a divided legislature.

Kennedy’s Maha movement was central to his paused presidential campaign last year, which ultimately led to his role in President Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Recent reports from the MAHA committee focused on child health issues, highlighting dangers posed by ultra-processed foods, environmental chemicals, and certain behaviors. Kennedy has often cited these factors as significant contributors to chronic health problems in the U.S.

“I told President Trump my aim is to tackle chronic diseases, but I can’t do that alone from Washington,” Kennedy said. “It’s initiatives like this that will make a difference. The vision and courage of everyone here will stand up against the industries and lobbyists who aren’t always doing what’s best for Texas.”