DENVER ~ In a move to promote healthy eating and increase access to nutritious foods, Governor Jared Polis of Colorado has signed an Executive Order today. The order outlines various actions that will be taken by state agencies to encourage healthy habits and outdoor activities, as well as prohibit the use of state funds for purchasing soft drinks and alcohol at official functions.

During the signing ceremony, Governor Polis emphasized the importance of a healthy and nutritious diet in maintaining a high quality of life. He stated, "Colorado is one of the healthiest states in the nation, and this is an opportunity to build on our success. Reducing obesity through healthy eating and keeping Coloradans active makes us healthier and lowers healthcare costs for everyone."

The Executive Order directs state agencies to take action in promoting healthy eating habits, expanding food access, and providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Some of the specific actions outlined include advocating for approval of Colorado's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) hot foods waiver, which would allow SNAP recipients to purchase nutritious items like rotisserie chicken. The order also calls for improving and expanding SNAP incentive programs such as Double Up Food Bucks and the Electronic Healthy Incentives Program.

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The Colorado Department of Healthcare Policy and Financing will collaborate with the Office of eHealth Innovation to launch an improved Provider Tool by 2028. This tool will help connect Medicaid members with community food banks and other nutrition support programs.

In alignment with Colorado's Outdoors Strategy, the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) will develop a plan to promote healthy habits within their Rural Technical Assistance Program (RTAP) and Colorado State Outdoor Recreation Grant Program (COSORG). This plan aims to encourage healthy activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife photography, cycling, and other forms of outdoor recreation.

The Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife will utilize newsletters to promote the benefits of outdoor activities. And in an effort to promote healthy habits among students, the Colorado Department of Education will expand access to nutritious school breakfasts and increase the use of Colorado-grown foods in school meal programs.

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The Executive Order also highlights the importance of building a strong and diverse agricultural and food workforce. The Colorado Department of Higher Education will work with the national Together We Grow consortium to develop a modern food and agricultural workforce that reflects the diversity of Colorado's communities.

Governor Polis believes that these actions will not only promote healthier lifestyles but also boost Colorado's economy. He stated, "Colorado is an active state with a thriving agricultural and outdoor recreation sector that employs thousands of Coloradans. By promoting healthy habits and activities, we are not only improving the well-being of our citizens but also supporting our economy."

The Executive Order is set to take effect immediately, with agencies directed to begin implementing their strategies as soon as possible. With this move, Governor Polis hopes to continue making Colorado one of the healthiest states in the nation.

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