Conn. lawmakers pass school soda ban

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Connecticut's public schools will be banned from selling soda and other sugary beverages under a bill given final legislative approval late last week.
The House voted 76-71 in favor of the bill, which is designed to fight childhood obesity. After the vote, Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she will sign it.
The new law will prohibit schools from selling regular and diet soda as well as electrolyte replacement drinks such as Gatorade.
An exception will allow sales at concession stands at school-sponsored events on weekends or after school.
The legislation will take effect July 1. Pupils will still be allowed to bring their own sodas and sports drinks to school.
Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.