By Bob Katzen

Rep. Natalie Blais (D- Sunderland) has filed a bill requiring all foods or beverages sold through vending machines located in government buildings be limited to items that comply with the nutritional standards established by the state’s commissioner of public health.

The bill also requires items that items that meet these nutrition standards be placed in the prime selling positions in the machine and be available at prices equal to or less than the prices for similar products that are available and that do not meet the nutrition standards. The measure also requires that food and beverage items that do not meet the nutrition standards options are banned from be promoted through discounted prices, bundled meals or promotional signs.

Blais did not respond to Beacon Hioll Roll Call’s request for a statement on her bill.