Puerto Rico considers plan to fine parents of obese children. 30% are obese

[Liberal_in_LA]

Legislators in Puerto Rico are debating a bill that would fine parents of obese children up to $800 if they don’t lose weight.

The bill aims to improve children’s wellbeing and help parents make healthier choices, senator Gilberto Rodriguez said in a statement issued Monday.

Public hearings for the bill are scheduled to begin on Friday.

If approved, public school teachers would flag potential obesity cases and refer them to a counselor or social worker, depending on the severity of the case. Health department officials would then meet with the parents and determine whether the obesity is a result of bad eating habits or a medical condition. They also would create a diet-and-exercise program combined with monthly visits to ensure it’s being followed.


http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/10/puerto-rico-considers-plan-fine-parents-obese-children

[hollysmom]

1. how about paying the parents a living wage so they have time off to play with their kids?

[ladjf]

2. Terrible idea! nt