Most Americans assume they will experience the effects of the newly passed national health care reform in their doctor’s office, neighborhood hospital and through their paycheck withholdings. But they will also find evidence of the new legislation at many of their favorite restaurants. That’s because the health care reform bill also requires restaurants with 20 or more locations to post calorie counts on menus and menu boards.
How did this new, national menu labeling legislation come about? In the last few years, twenty-two states have passed or were considering menu labeling, either statewide or within regions, and the threat of additional states considering the legislation was expected to grow. Legislators, along with many health organizations, have pushed labeling to the point of passing in these areas, contending that nutrition information is essential to help the public make wise choices when eating away from home.
NRA supports the new standardized labeling legislation
The regional and state-based provisions have varying requirements, making it complicated for chains operating in multiple areas. The National Restaurant Association (NRA), along with many chain restaurants and health advocates, support the new standardized, nationwide menu labeling legislation, in large part because it will pre-empt all other nutrition labeling bills that have passed or are pending. The NRA’s statement on the newly passed legislation emphasizes that this new ruling, as part of the healthcare reform bill, is a “win for consumers and restaurateurs,” as it provides “one consistent national standard that helps consumers make choices that are best for themselves and their families.”
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