See The C-SPAN Video: Utah Congressman Rob Bishop Blasts Fines Against Schools For Selling Soda

In a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives captured by C-SPAN, Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, criticized a federal school food law passed in 2010 because it resulted in fining schools for having soda vending machines operating during lunch. Bishop also claimed the nutrition standards are not rational. To view the video, click here. 

Editor’s Insight: This congressman raises the objections that many people have long raised about federal rules being imposed on states. Critics of the federal school food law claim the standards that are hard to enforce and are not rational.

These are certainly valid concerns. However, obesity is a huge problem affecting the entire country, and the federal government cannot ignore it.

Lawmakers have a big challenge in trying to come up with rules that are sensible and effective. This is why it is important for the food industry to be involved in providing input; industry organizations have expertise that can make the rules more reasonable.

Food industry organizations, including the National Automatic Merchandising Association, overall must continue to participate in discussions on nutrition rules. 05-18-12 By Elliot Maras