Massachusetts Nurse :: September 2005

Helping children eat right in school

The Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA) is organizing to pass “An Act to Promote Proper School Nutrition,” H.1457, sponsored by Rep. Peter J. Koutoujian, D-Waltham. The bill will eliminate the sale of soda, sports drinks and high-fat foods from school vending machines, stores, cafeteria a la carte lines and fundraisers.

Childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes rates continue to rise in the state, and the problem demands a multi-pronged public health solution. If passed, the bill will ensure that all Massachusetts schools are sending a responsible message to children about the importance of eating lower fat foods and drinking more water, low-fat milk and juice rather than soda.

The public hearing for H.1457 is scheduled for Oct. 5. The MNA has endorsed the bill and now MPHA needs your help to educate legislators and others about its importance.

If you would like to make an individual endorsement, write a letter to or article for your local newspaper, or write testimony in support of the bill. For additional information please contact Roberta Friedman, MPHA’s director of education, at 617.524.6696 ext.103, or via email at rfriedman@mphaweb.org.