California cities repeal menu ordinances in light of state law
December 2, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO — The California cities of San Francisco and Santa Clara have repealed their menu-labeling ordinances because of the passage of a state menu-labeling law.
"Because the State Legislature has now acted to protect not only the health of San Franciscans but of all persons in the entire state of California by ensuring consumers have access to the information they need to be able to make nutritional choices consistent with their health needs, the Board of Supervisors has determined it is appropriate to suspend the Menu Labeling Ordinance," reads the action suspending the San Francisco ordinance.
In September, California became the first state in the nation to require nutritional menu labeling. The law requires chains operating 20 or more restaurants to post calorie counts on menus and menu boards.