Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregonians could soon have a calculation other than price to consider when ordering a Big Mac or a Whopper.

Lawmakers in the Oregon Senate Monday approved a bill that would require chain restaurants to post information on calories beside all items on the menu.  

The law would only apply to restaurants with 15 or more locations nationwide.  

Democratic Senator Alan Bates says the measure would give people the information they need to make better nutritional choices:

Alan Bates: “Moms are going to look at those menus and think ‘Whoa, what am I feeding my kids? It’s a busy night, it’s right after soccer, we’re running home, let’s grab something to eat.’  And when you see the number of calories in those, you’re going to think twice about it I hope.”

Restaurants would be fined up to a thousand dollars for failing to comply with the law. If the governor signs it, the bill would take effect next January.  

Oregon would join the Seattle area, California and a handful of other places with menu labeling laws.  Congress is considering a federal version.

Online:

Oregon House Bill 2726