Junk food in schools on state lawmaker's hit list

Tuesday, March 22nd 2005, 5:47 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Legislation that would bar the sale of junk food in elementary schools and restrict them in higher grades was adopted by a state House committee and sent to the full House.

The measure passed by the state Senate Monday is tailored to attack the growing problem of obesity, diabetes and other health problems among young people.

The bill is being pushed by the Oklahoma Fit Kids Coalition, a private group made up mostly of health professionals. The measure would bar the sale of soft drinks and low nutritional snacks, beginning in 2007.

It would prohibit the sale of foods of low nutritional value in elementary school, except on special occasions. Such foods also would be prohibited at junior high schools, except for special occasions and after-school activities.