For the second year in a row, a measure that would have mandated sodas and other sugary drinks to carry warning labels has fallen flat in the California legislature.
The bill, SB 203, would have required all drinks with added sugar to carry a label warning that such beverages contribute to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay.
The California Center for Public Health Advocacy was a major supporter of the legislation. Howard Goldstein, the center's executive director, said each 20-ounce soda contains 16 teaspoons of sugar.
"Consumers have a right to know, and the beverage industry doesn’t want Californians to know how harmful all that liquid sugar is in their diet," Goldstein said.
The beverage industry argued that obesity and diabetes are complex problems, and that it would be unfair to single out their products.
The industry's influence apparently carried the day. The Senate Health Committee rejected the bill by a 4-1 vote, with four lawmakers abstaining.
Supporters vow to try again.
