A California state senate bill that would outlaw soft drinks, high-calorie foods, and sugared treats in all public schools
has apparently been met with some resistance. The original legislation, proposed by State Senator Martha Escutia (D), was quietly amended last week to exempt high schools
and set up a pilot program that would leave dietary prohibitions up to principals on a school-by-school basis. Escutia and her colleagues still seem convinced that certain foods (and not unhealthy habits) are at the root of children’s perceived “obesity epidemic.” As amended, the bill would still limit elementary and middle schools to serving water, milk and fruit juice only – and special waivers would be needed in order to hold bake sales.
