It will become increasingly difficult to justify buying cheeseburgers and desserts at chain restaurants if Gov. Ted Kulongoski signs House Bill 2726 into law.
The bill, which was passed by the legislature, would require chain restaurants in Oregon to provide detailed nutritional information on their menus and drive-through displays. It would mandate that all restaurants with more than 15 locations nationwide would have to provide customers with information regarding calories, fats, carbohydrates and sodium.
The law already exists in some capacity in Multnomah County, but is not unique to Oregon. Seattle, Philadelphia, New York City and California have all passed similar laws.
Oregon legislators began considering enacting the law when a poll by the Northwest Health Foundations revealed that 69 percent of Oregonians said they wanted more nutritional information on their restaurant menus.
“Consumers across the state are telling us they want this information,” Sen. Bill Morrisette (D-Springfield) said. “This is one small step we can take to fight against our nation’s epidemic of obesity and preventable diabetes.”
The bill was introduced in the House by Reps. Tina Kotek (D-Portland) and Mitch Greenlick (D-Portland), and will move to the governor’s desk for his signature.
“By requiring chains to provide nutritional information, we are empowering consumers to decide what meals are best for their lifestyle,” Sen. Alan Bates (D-Ashland) said in a statement. “Many people are not aware of the calories or fats in the foods they order. This information will allow them to make informed decisions.”
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