JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
It's referred to as the 'Anti-Bloomberg Bill,' in reference to New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's attempt to ban oversized drinks with a high sugar content. The bill's co-author, senator Melanie Sojourner says government shouldn't have a say in what people choose to eat or drink.
"I'm just a strong believer in that personal choice and less government," said Sojourner, a republican from Natchez.
Under the bill, local governments, like cities would be prohibited from trying to pass laws on food or drinks because of nutritional value, or lack of.
"We have a state department of health and this is an area that they regulate and I felt like that's where we needed to draw the line," said Sojourner.
Some groups in opposition say that line is blurry and the bill could jeopardize health-focused programs already in place and initiatives like restaurant menu labeling.
"It is incredibly overreaching," said Katherine Bryant, with the American Heart Association. "This bill was really put on the fast track and was discovered really late in the process the harm it would do."
Bryant says while the intentions of the bill may be good, they could be outweighed by negative impacts. In a state with poor health rankings, Bryant says local leaders should have the ability to at least guide healthier choices.
"We're at a point where we can not afford to gamble with the health and wellness of our state," said Bryant.
While Bryant says it's more of a reactionary bill and not thought out, lawmakers overwhelmingly disagree. The bill has already cleared both legislative chambers and is just one signature away from becoming law. The association is teaming up with the American Cancer Society and The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi asking Governor Phil Bryant to veto the bill. Although the governor is expected to sign it, Bryant hopes groups, like her's, can be brought in to the discussion.
"Let's pull everybody to the table and let's really do some education. Let's do some research," said Bryant.
With the bill now in the hands of the governor, Sojourner says the message is for Mississippians to be responsible for themselves.
"The bottom line is for me, this comes down to a personal freedom," said Sojourner.
Late Thursday afternoon Governor Bryant weighed in on the debate saying the bill will not add to the state's health problems, like obesity. He says he will indeed sign it when he gets the chance.
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Under the bill, local governments, like cities would be prohibited from trying to pass laws on food or drinks because of nutritional value, or lack of.
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