NYS Senate Health Committee passes Sodium Warning Bill, next stop senate floor

Today, the New York Senate Health Committee passed the Sodium Warning Bill (S428), a key piece of legislation sponsored by Committee Chair Senator Gustavo Rivera and Assemblymember Karines Reyes. This bill represents a significant step forward in reducing excessive sodium consumption, a major contributor to chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke, which are leading causes of death in New York State. In response, Dr. DeAnna Nara issued the following statement:

“The Center for Science in the Public Interest commends the New York Senate Health Committee for prioritizing public health by passing the Sodium Warning Bill. This legislation empowers consumers with the information they need to make healthier choices when dining out and encourages restaurants to create lower sodium options. By adopting this measure, New York can lead the nation in addressing preventable chronic diseases tied to excessive sodium intake. We urge the Senate to swiftly pass this bill and call on the Assembly to do the same.”

The Sodium Warning Bill (S428): The bill requires chain restaurants to display warning icons on menu items containing more than the daily recommended sodium limit of 2,300 milligrams. By providing clear, accessible information to diners, the legislation aims to reduce sodium intake across the population, help address rates of chronic disease, and improve public health outcomes.

Why Sodium Reduction Matters:

• Hypertension Epidemic: Over 4.5 million adults in New York report having hypertension, with 79% of those individuals relying on medication to manage the condition.
• Excess Sodium in Diets: Restaurant foods, on average, have more sodium per calorie compared to foods purchased in stores, making dining out a significant contributor to excessive sodium intake.
• Chronic Disease Burden: Excessive sodium consumption increases the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke, which are among the leading causes of death and disability in New York..
• New York City’s Leadership: The sodium warning icon implemented in NYC chain restaurants in 2016 led to increased consumer awareness and modest reductions in sodium levels in newly introduced menu items.
• Consumer Behavior: Warning labels help diners identify high-sodium foods and choose lower-sodium alternatives, supporting long-term health benefits.

By enacting this bill, New York has the opportunity to become the first state to set a groundbreaking standard for public health transparency, leading the way in improving health outcomes for its residents.

Contact Info:  Becky Stern, 516-581-5707