Skittles Next To Be BANNED, This Is Getting Ridiculous
A bill proposed by California Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D–Woodland Hills), which would ban the sale, manufacture and distribution of foods containing certain chemicals, has sparked debate among Republicans in the state.
AB 418, which seeks to ban the sale and manufacture of foods containing chemicals linked to health concerns such as decreased immune response, hyperactivity in children and increased risk of cancer, is seen by some Republicans as an unneeded government intrusion in the lives of citizens.
“The government should not be trying to control what we eat,” said Republican Assemblymember Matthew Harper (R–Huntington Beach). “It’s up to individuals to decide what they put into their bodies.”
Harper believes that the government should instead focus on education about healthy eating, rather than banning certain chemicals in food.
“We should be teaching people the importance of healthy eating habits and nutrition,” said Harper. “Banning certain chemicals in food isn’t going to solve the problem.”
Other Republicans are pushing back against the bill, citing the potential economic impact it could have on businesses in the state.
“This bill will have a significant economic impact on businesses in California, particularly small businesses,” said Republican Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R–Palmdale). “It could force them to change their recipes and increase their costs, which could lead to job losses.”
Lackey is also concerned about the potential impact the bill could have on the availability of certain snacks and treats.
“This bill could mean that we won’t be able to enjoy certain snacks and treats, like Skittles and Ding Dongs,” said Lackey. “And that’s something a lot of Californians would be unhappy about.”
Despite the criticism from some Republicans, the bill has been gaining traction in the Assembly and is expected to be voted on soon.
End of the rainbow? California bill would ban sales of Skittles, other 'toxic' snacks https://t.co/SnP2r3uDTW
— Los Angeles Times (@latimes) March 23, 2023