Mass. Legislature to consider following R.I.’s lead on school junk food phase out
According to today’s Boston Globe Massachusetts lawmakers are renewing efforts to restrict the sale of certain junk foods in schools. Our own Rep. Joseph McNamara and Sen. Susan Sosnowski championed the idea last session and ultimately earned passage of legislation that prohibits the sale of unhealthy beverages and snacks in schools across the state.
From Rep. McNamara
“Every day, students are confronted by vending machines filled with soda and other sweet drinks. With many schools cutting back on physical education and after-school athletic programs, it’s no wonder there is a significant population of school-age kids who are overweight and even dangerously obese. It’s an unhealthy environment and one that needs corrective action.”
From Sen. Sosnowski
“We need to set a better example for school children. By stocking school vending machines with candy, soda, chips and cookies, how can we expect students to make the right food choices? Replacing soft drinks and junk food with healthy snacks will help students to make better choices and lead healthier lives.”