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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Michele Simon, JD, MPH, Center for Informed Food Choices, PO Box 16053, Oakland, CA 94610, 510-465-0322, michele@informedeating.org

There is currently a tremendous amount of activity in state legislatures across the country to address the obesity epidemic. Statewide policy initiatives include getting junk food out of schools, requiring menu labeling in chain restaurants, and in New York, requiring a "fat tax.” The success of these initiatives varies widely. For example, while almost every state has proposed a school nutrition bill, only about half have passed such a measure. Thus far, no state has been able to pass a menu labeling bill and New York faces an uphill battle with its tax proposal. In contrast, the restaurant industry has enjoyed tremendous success in passing laws in 21 states so far to shield itself from legal liability against obesity lawsuits. What are the obstacles that well-meaning politicians and nutrition advocates face in advancing state-level policies? How can advocates be successful? How has the food industry played a role in undermining common-sense efforts to improve public health? This presentation will present an overview of state legislation and describe specific case studies on school bills.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to

• Identify four main areas of state legislation to address obesity
• Describe the major obstacles advocates face in passing bills
• Evaluate the best practices and approaches to state legislation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation