The Michigan Restaurant Association today commended state lawmakers for introducing legislation that emphasizes personal responsibility and the idea that individuals should be accountable for their lifestyle choices, particularly on the issue of obesity.
House Bill 5809, introduced by Rep. David Palsrok (R-Manistee), would prevent people from suing Michigan’s restaurant and foodservice industry because of their weight gain or other obesity-related health issues.
“Frivolous lawsuits against restaurants and the foodservice industry are not going to help solve the problem of obesity,” said MRA Executive Director Rob Gifford. “Rep. Palsrok has introduced common-sense legislation that reinforces the idea that we are individually responsible for making healthy lifestyle choices, which involves increasing food variety, moderation and physical activity.”
The MRA isn’t alone in its belief that customers shouldn’t be able to file civil suits for their weight gain or obesity-related problems. According to a July 2003 Gallop Poll, 89 percent of Americans believe the food industry should not be blamed for the health problems of individuals related to obesity.
Similar legislation has been introduced in the legislatures of 20 other states and has been signed into law in four states – Idaho, Louisiana, South Dakota and Utah.
“Such frivolous lawsuits are not only a bad idea, they’re an extremely dangerous one. They would have a drastic impact on Michigan’s restaurant industry and small business owners, not to mention the 350,000 foodservice jobs in this state,” Gifford said. “Michigan’s 20,000 restaurants have long provided a wide variety of choices and options that meet any individual's dietary needs and nutrition experts agree that all foods can be part of a healthy lifestyle.”
The MRA also cited the fact that even with restaurants continuing to grow in popularity and variety, 76 percent of all meals are eaten in the home.
Founded in 1921, the Michigan Restaurant Association represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The foodservice industry plays an integral role in Michigan’s economy, employing more than 345,000 people and creating $11 billion in annual sales. For more information, call (517) 482-5244, or visit the MRA website at www.michiganrestaurant.org. | 
