Health groups unite against ban on sugar bans

6 health groups unite against budget provision barring local bans on sugary foods, drinks

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Six health groups have united against a provision in the Wisconsin state budget that would prohibit local communities from banning sugary foods and drinks.

The groups on Tuesday called on the Legislature to remove the provision before passing the budget later this month.

The ban was added by the Joint Finance Committee last month, with Republican supporters saying they didn't want government infringing on their ability to buy large sodas.

But the health groups say the ban will have a much wider unintended impact, including limiting employee wellness programs.

Groups calling for removal of the provision are Health First Wisconsin, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, the American Heart Association, the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families, the Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association, and the Childhood Obesity Prevention Collaborative.