School Nutrition Bill Gets Preliminary House OK

The House has given preliminary approval to a bill that would limit the kinds of beverages that can be sold to students at public schools and at charter schools.

SB 129 does not specifically ban the sale of soft drinks and other heavily sugar-laden beverages on school campuses. Instead, it would require school districts and the charter school institute to write policies that forbid the sale of beverages that do not meet minimum nutritional standards.

The bill would apply to sales in cafeterias, from vending machines and school stores, and at fundraising events held on campuses.

The House sponsor is Rep. Jim Riesberg, D-Greeley. It was carried in the Senate by Democrat Dan Gibbs of Silverthorne.

The measure faces one more vote in the House. If it passes on third reading, it will go to Gov. Bill Ritter.