Representative Chuck Benedict (D-Beloit) is proposing new legislation that would require chain restaurants to provide calorie information on their menus. Benedict is a retired physician, and chair of the Assembly Committee on Public Health. He says battling obesity is a priority for him in hopes of preventing weight-related illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and joint injuries.
Wisconsin Health Department data shows that 65% of Wisconsinites are overweight or obese. Benedict says the obesity problem could be curbed by better exercise and food choices, and he wants to make sure the nutritional information is readily available so people can make informed decisions.
Benedict says he realizes there are bigger issues in the state that take priority, like job creation and the economy, but this is certainly worthy of his attention. He’s currently seeking cosponsors.
According to America’s Health Rankings by 2018 obesity and its related illnesses will cost American taxpayers $344 billion in medical related expenses.
Jackie Johnson 1:33