As First Official Act, Commissioner Miller Announces Amnesty For Cupcakes (1/12/2015)

AUSTIN – In his first official act as Commissioner of Agriculture for the State of Texas, Commissioner Sid Miller today announced amnesty for cupcakes during a press conference in Austin. Today’s event was part of an effort to spread the word to all Texans that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) does not prevent parents from bringing cupcakes to their children’s school. 

“We want families, teachers and schools in Texas to know the Texas Department of Agriculture has abolished all rules and guidelines that would stop a parent from bringing cupcakes, cookies or snacks to school,” said Commissioner Miller. “This act is about providing local control to our communities. I am evaluating agency policies and procedures to ensure we are in touch with Texas consumers, while also decreasing state regulation and expanding local control.”

In 2004, TDA published the Texas Public School Nutrition Policy. This policy restricted foods both sold and given away in schools based on nutritional value. However, it has since been repealed to allow for greater control and decision-making at the local level. Many Texas residents are unaware of this change, and as his first act at the helm of TDA, Commissioner Miller wants to ensure all Texans are clear on the policy.

Federal guidelines still regulate food sold during the day at schools that participate in the National School Lunch program. Additional restrictions are the purview of local schools.

The Hey Cupcake! food trailer — a local Austin favorite — was on hand for today’s announcement. TDA employees, members of the media and special guests were invited to enjoy a free cupcake to mark the occasion. In addition, 181 cupcakes were delivered to state representatives and senators at the Capitol to encourage them to share the news about cupcake amnesty with their constituents. No taxpayer dollars were spent on the cupcakes.

Commissioner Miller was sworn into office last week as the 12^th Commissioner of Agriculture for the State of Texas. He has a deep-rooted history in Texas’ agriculture industry. Commissioner Miller is a cattle rancher and farmer, as well as the owner/operator of a commercial nursery business. A former six-term member of the Texas House of Representatives, Commissioner Miller served as chairman of the House Agriculture and Livestock Committee. He also is a professional rodeo cowboy and holds nine American Quarter Horse Association world championship titles.

For Commissioner Miller’s full biography, click here.