SUGAR-SWEETENED DRINKS Health Officials Ask Lawmakers To Eliminate Sugar-Sweetened Drinks From Public Schools
Reported by: Associated Press
Web Producer: Jeff Morris
Reported: Dec. 13, 2012 11:54 AM EST
Eyewitness News Photo
Charleston
, Kanawha County
, West Virginia
Health officials are asking the West Virginia Legislature to eliminate sugar-sweetened drinks from the state's public schools.
Chairwoman Helen Matheny of the West Virginia Healthy Lifestyles Coalition cites the state's high rankings for obesity and Type 2 diabetes in recommending the action.
West Virginia sought to limit soft drinks in schools with a law passed last decade. But Matheny says its wording has created a conflict with state Board of Education and U.S. Department of Agriculture policies.
Matheny said the Healthy Lifestyles Coalition recommends the law's repeal. It also wants public schools to require that a least half of every physical education class involve moderate to rigorous activity.
The coalition is also calling for schools to share their gym and exercise-related facilities more with their communities.
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Associated Press
