News

Georgia working to pass legislation against obesity lawsuits

February 24, 2004

ATLANTA--Obese people wouldn't be able to sue restaurants for health-related problems under a bill offered by Georgia House Democrats on Feb. 24.

According to The Associated Press, Georgia is one of a dozen other states considering similar measures designed to stop frivolous lawsuits being filed against food providers. The bill wouldn't protect in cases where food was mislabeled or sold illegally.

Georgia is home to quick-service chains like Chick-Fil-A and Cinnabon.

House Republican Leader Glenn Richardson said the state's GOP is unlikely to oppose the restaurant bill.

The Georgia Restaurant Association, which represents 20,000 restaurants, said lawsuits are inevitable unless Georgia passes this bill.

"One lawsuit, even if you successfully defend yourself, can be very expensive," said Ron Fennel, senior vice president of the restaurant group. "We believe the consumer should always have the choice as to what they eat."

The bill is awaiting a hearing in the business-friendly Economic Development & Tourism Committee. It should clear that committee by next week as the committee is led by one of the bill's sponsors.

"If you eat too much, drink too much and don't exercise, you do it to yourself," said Rep. Butch Parrish, D-Swainsboro.

* Join PizzaMarketplace in supporting legislation currently on Capitol Hill that is designed to stop the filing of frivilous obesity-related lawsuits against the foodservice industry. Click herefor more information.