Bill banning unhealthy foods in schools passes
By: News Staff
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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – The House of Representatives passed a bill Tuesday that would ban the advertisement of unhealthy foods to children in schools.
The bill was sponsored by Representative Joseph M. McNamara.
The bill would ban the advertisement of unhealthy foods and beverages, especially those not allowed to be sold on school grounds since they don’t meet federal governmental nutrition standards.
“In 2006, the General Assembly passed legislation that required the phase-out of unhealthy drinks and snacks from all public schools in Rhode Island,” said Representative McNamara. “Now that junk food is gone from the cafeterias, it’s time to focus on improving dietary practices in our children and encourage healthy eating habits. The Department of Agriculture has told us time and again that educating children on nutrition is the best way to encourage healthy eating.”
Advertising would be banned from any property or facility owned or leased by a school or school district.
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an increase in obese children in the country.
The bill now heads to the Senate.
© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2017
