Zacky Muñoz (born 2012) is an American author and activist known for his food allergy awareness and advocacy.[1] He is the FARE Ambassador and the author of The Zacky Bill[2][3] and Muñoz SAFE Act, which both became Law in 2022 and 2023 respectively.[4][5][6]
Zacky Muñoz | |
|---|---|
 Muñoz speaks about the passage of a California Law | |
| Born | 2012 |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | The Zacky Bill Muñoz SAFE Act |
Biography
Zacky Muñoz is the son of Priscilla and Zachary Muñoz with another younger male sibling.[3][7]
Muñoz had suffered from eczema since birth and was diagnosed with allergies to nuts, sesame seeds, shellfish, legumes, and avocados. When he was in first grade, he had two anaphylactic reactions at school.[3][6][8] First incident was when he ate a breadstick sprinkled with sesame seeds.[9] The second was when the usual allergen-free croutons in his salad were switched to one with allergen. The two episodes spurred Zacky and his mother, Priscilla, to work on Assembly Bills that focused on food allergy safety in the school.[4]
Assembly bills
Zacky Bill
The Zacky Bill, also known as Assembly Bill 2640, has passed both the state senate and the state assembly[3] and was signed into California law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022.[5][6][10] This guide helps school administrators, nurses, staffs, and families navigate the daily calculations, options, and protections available to school children with food allergies.[7] The Zacky Bill is known as the California Resource Guide and is available on the Department of Education website.[3]
Muñoz SAFE Act
In 2023, Muñoz championed the Muñoz SAFE Act,[5] known as Assembly Bill 1651, which stands for Student Allergy Framework for Emergencies.[7] This bill requires schools to store epinephrine in an accessible location, like an EpiPen, and provide training to staff on how to use them. Muñoz advocated for the bill throughout and was recognized[by whom?] for his work.[6]
Food allergy advocacy and awareness
Muñoz is featured in food allergy series videos from FARE, such as Kids Cuisine Remixand Zacky's Kitchen,[11] and a Back-to-School campaign.[1] Muñoz was also seen on Arnold Schwarzenegger's social media outlets.[12][13]
Recognition
- In 2023, Muñoz accepted a commendation from Supervisor Kathryn Barger in Los Angeles.[7]
- Muñoz received the California Senate Golden Resolution, one of the highest honors given in the California Legislature.[14]