Vote limiting unhealthy school food delayed

PROVIDENCE (AP) — Rhode Island is considering a proposal that would ban unhealthy foods and drinks from being sold or advertised at schools.

The state House of Representatives was scheduled to vote on the bill Thursday, but has delayed the vote. It's now scheduled for Tuesday.

Foods or beverages that don't meet minimum federal nutrition standards would be affected. It would prohibit advertising them at schools during the academic day, but also advertising on anything used for school-related activities, such as athletic fields, scoreboards, uniforms or vending machines.

It would also ban advertising by any corporate brand if it sells any products not considered healthy by U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. It would exempt advertising displays that are already a permanent fixture.

The bill was introduced by Warwick Democratic state Rep. Joseph McNamara.