Bill that would add health warnings on sugary drinks moves through committee

A bill that would mandate safety warning labels on sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages sold in California is moving closer to becoming law.

The legislation championed by state Sen. Bill Monning was approved on a 5-2 vote by the Senate Committee on Health Wednesday.

Monning, a Carmel Democrat, says the bill is aimed at ensuring Californians are aware of the link between sugary drink consumption and the exploding rates of diabetes and obesity.

Consumers have a right to know about the adverse health effects of frequent sugary drink consumption,” said Sen. Monning. “(This bill) does exactly what the beverage industry has long said we should do – educate the public – and this is the appropriate public health response to the scientifically proven risks that liquid sugar poses to the public’s health. The bill is a common sense measure that is overwhelmingly supported by the public.”

If enacted, the bill would place a warning on the front of all beverage containers with added sweeteners that have 75 or more calories per 12 ounces.

The label would read: State of California Safety Warning – Drinking beverages with added sugar(s) contributes to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.

The bill now moves to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for consideration.