By: Julie Wilson
The City of Austin is cracking down on childhood obesity by attempting to pass a resolution that would “restrict fast food in restaurants from locating near areas that children frequent.” Their goal is to create “healthy food zones”. These areas include schools, municipal parks and libraries.
Critics of the move call the proposal a total “government overreach,” while some support forcing citizens onto healthier foods by placing restrictions on fast food restaurants.
The City Council is voting on this measure at the upcoming meeting Thursday November 21st. If the proposal is passed, the restrictions will only apply to new fast food restaurants, leaving currently located fast food businesses unaffected.
See Item 51 in this weeks Council Agenda - http://austin.siretechnologies.com/sirepub/mtgviewer.aspx?meetid=482&doctype=agenda&itemid=28852
For those interested in contacting emailing their council person regarding this item, visit -
http://www.austintexas.gov/mail/all-council-members