This week, CHPA submitted written testimony in opposition to California Assembly bill 1341, which prohibits individuals under the age of 18 from buying dietary supplements and OTC drugs for weight loss. A.B. 1341, sponsored by Assembly member Cristina Garcia (D-Bell Gardens), would also require retailers and pharmacies to eliminate direct access to these products by consumers. Similar bills are under consideration in Massachusetts and New York and stem from lawmakers’ concerns over eating disorders, particularly among female teens.
CHPA opposes the creation of a third class of over-the-counter products (behind-the-pharmacy counter) and rejects the notion that weight loss supplements are driving the teen eating disorder issue. The bill could also have the unintended effect of teens turning to the internet to buy illegitimate, unsafe products promising unrealistic results. A.B. 1341 was referred to the Assembly Committee on Health and Assembly Committee on Judiciary.
