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NRA Welcomes House Passage of Bill Preventing Frivolous Obesity-Related Lawsuits

By Restaurant Business Staff on Oct. 19, 2005


Adopted by a vote of 307-119, the bill, sponsored by Rep. Ric Keller (R-FL), releases food-related companies from liability for an individual's obesity or obesity-related health claims.

"Today's action by the House of Representatives emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and that frivolous litigation is not a solution to addressing the complex issue of obesity," said Steven C. Anderson, president and ceo. "Holding restaurants and food companies legally responsible for choices all of us freely make each day such as what to eat, when to eat and how much to eat, is irrational.

"We commend Rep. Ric Keller for introducing this common-sense, bipartisan legislation that will block the tactics of unscrupulous attorneys attempting to abuse the judicial system at the expense of restaurant operators, who are the hardest working people we have in the country."

A vast majority of Americans have agreed in numerous polls that the food industry is not to blame for obesity. According to a Gallup poll, nearly 90% of Americans believe that the food industry should not be blamed for issues related to obesity and overweight. While H.R. 554 blocks frivolous obesity suits, it will not protect businesses that violate the law or serve adulterated food products.

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