Chris Woodward
An author and policy analyst suggests a bill in California to put warning labels on sugary drinks is absurd.
The bill is from state Sen. William Monning, a Democrat, who says there is overwhelming data showing a link between sugary drinks and obesity, diabetes and other health problems.
As a result, Monning wants to make the connection known on the front of beverage containers with added sweeteners that have 75 or more calories in every 12 ounces.
Julie Gunlock of the Independent Women's Forum offers this tongue-in-cheek response: more warning labels on everything.
"You know what else contributes to obesity? Sitting on the couch," says Gunlock. "So let's put a warning label on couches. Let's put a warning label on cars. I mean, if you walked everywhere, you would reduce your chances of being obese. Actually, let's just outlaw everything that makes our lives easier."
Gunlock adds that there is a combination of reasons why people have problems with obesity. "It is not just because of soda," she argues.
California is not the first state to see this kind of legislation. A similar bill in Vermont is stuck in a legislative committee.
Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg tried to ban the sale of large sugary beverages at restaurants and other venues. That policy was struck down by a state judge for being arbitrary and capricious.