California Lawmaker Ash Kalra Introduces Resolution Promoting Plant-Based Diets for Health, Environment

SACRAMENTO—The Physicians Committee—a nonprofit with 12,000 doctor members—applauds California Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San José) for introducing ACR 279, a resolution encouraging Californians to include more healthy plant-based foods in their diet.

“Kudos to Assemblymember Ash Kalra for encouraging Californians to eat more plant-based meals,” says Susan Levin, M.S., R.D., director of nutrition education for the Physicians Committee. “ACR 279 is just the prescription California needs to protect the health of both humans and the environment.” 

The resolution reads, in part:

“WHEREAS, The State of California has taken significant steps to establish policies and programs to preserve and protect its environment, combat climate change, provide for the health and well-being of all people, and show compassion to and support the humane treatment of animals; …

“Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That making plant-based foods the emphasis of one’s diet has been proven to have a positive impact on the environment, individual health, and society as a whole, and all Californians are encouraged to include more plant-based foods in their diet; …”

The Physicians Committee is a co-sponsor of SB 1138, introduced by California Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), a historic bill that could soon provide patients and prisoners a healthful plant-based option at every meal.