The National Grocers Association (N.G.A.) applauds the introduction today of the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act of 2012, bi-partisan legislation that will prevent the FDA from exceeding its authority under section 4205 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the Nutrition Labeling of Standard Menu Items at Chain Restaurants. This legislation introduced by Rep. Carter (R-Texas) and Reps. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Rubén Hinojosa (D-Texas), Cathy McMorris Rogers (R-Wash.), Mike Ross (D-Ark.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), Joe Barton (R-Texas), Reid Ribble (R-Wis.), Rob Bishop (R-Utah), Billy Long (R-Mo.), John Barrow (D-Ga.), Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) and Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) protects grocery stores from being subjected to unnecessary regulatory burdens and costs.
“N.G.A. commends Rep. Carter for his leadership to ensure that the FDA does not exceed its authority under the statute by expanding this provision beyond chain restaurants,” says N.G.A. President and CEO Peter J. Larkin. “This legislation will ensure independent retail grocers are not subjected to millions of dollars in new and unnecessary expenses and administrative burdens because of regulatory overreach. N.G.A.’s members are focused on growing their businesses and creating jobs at a time when our country desperately needs both. This bill will ensure that the FDA adheres to Congress’ original intent, which did not include grocery stores.”
Grocery stores are not chain restaurants where menus and ingredients are uniform across the chain. Grocery stores’ ingredients and menus often change daily based on the availability of fresh ingredients and products in their stores. Subjecting grocery stores to a law meant for chain restaurants simply does make sense, say N.G.A. officials, adding that the organization will continue to seek additional bi-partisan co-sponsors and urge the House to quickly pass this common sense bill.
