Kittleman Vetoes Nutrition Bill

County Executive Allan Kittleman exercised his veto power Monday, knocking down a bill that would have restricted vending machine items on county properties and at youth-oriented programs operated by county agencies.

“I trust Howard County residents and Howard County employees to make their own decisions regarding what they eat and drink—and I disagree with the approach that was taken by the county council,” Kittleman said.

The County Council passed the bill on July 6 in a 4-1 vote.

Council Bill 17-2015 included a host of requirements as to what could be in vending machines and served at youth programs, from sodium (no more than 200 mg per snack package) to caloric limits (no more than 40 calories per drink, no more than 200 calories per snack).

“As I have said frequently since taking office, banning or limiting access to some foods at limited locations is not an effective strategy to reducing obesity,” Kittleman said in a statement.

The county executive repealed a ban on sugary drinks during his first week in office in December and made clear during his campaign against Democrat Courtney Watson, who was a former council member, that he would not support legislation taking away people’s right to choice about food.

See Also:

• Kittleman Repeals Sugary Drink Ban in Howard County
• Howard County Puts Lid on School Parties with Food

Kittleman said he supported encouraging people to make healthy decisions on their own.

“I am committed to developing a comprehensive health and nutrition educational program for Howard County, encouraging lifestyle changes that are far more likely to produce results,” he said in a statement. “Motivating people to take responsibility for their own health and fitness is the most meaningful approach to affecting real and measurable change.”

Kittleman said he encouraged community partners to work together to come up with a plan for promoting healthy living.

This article will be updated with additional information.