Massachusetts House Approves Bill to Ban Soda and Candy in Schools

In a step forward in the battle to reduce childhood obesity, the Massachusetts House voted to approve a bill that will ban high-calorie sodas and salty and sugary snacks from elementary and high schools. According to Boston.com, the bill encourages schools to serve low fat dairy products and whole grain breads and pastas. 

More legislation may be on the way. Governor Deval Patrick is supporting a proposal that will lift the state sales tax exemption on candy and soda and funnel the extra revenue into health programs.