SACRAMENTO, Calif., October 14, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, today issued the following statement in response to the failure to sign Senate Bill 764, legislation that aimed to improve nutrition standards for restaurant kids’ meals.
“The American Heart Association is deeply disappointed by the Governor’s decision to veto SB 764, authored by Senator Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson (San Diego)— a pivotal policy aimed at improving kids’ meal options in chain restaurants with 20 or more locations nationwide that operate in California.
“Research shows that when families with children eat out— at an average of four to five times per week[1]— children tend to consume significantly more calories, added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium than they would at home. These factors increase their long-term risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
“Senate Bill 764 would have ensured that at least one kid’s meal offered would meet certain standards to support healthier eating habits and served as an important step toward improving the dietary choices for California’s children and lowering their risk for heart disease and other chronic conditions.
“We are disappointed by this outcome. Our longstanding commitment to creating healthier food environments remains unwavering.
“California’s kids deserve better— and we will continue advocating for policies that protect their health.”
Additional Resources:
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Vibhuti (Vi) Gupta: Vibhuti.gupta@heart.org
Public Inquiries:
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Todd JE, Scharadin B; U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service. Where Households Get Food in a Typical Week: Findings from USDA’s FoodAps. Published July 2016.
