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Congressman Akin Votes to Curb Obesity-Related Lawsuits

By: Todd Akin
By: Todd Akin
Date: Oct. 19, 2005
Location: Washington, DC


Congressman Akin Votes to Curb Obesity-Related Lawsuits
October 19, 2005

Washington, D.C.- Congressman Akin (R-MO), voted to limit frivolous lawsuits seeking to hold the food industry accountable for an individual's weight gain. H.R. 554, the "Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Act," prevents such a lawsuit unless a person has suffered harm due to the violation of a State or Federal law. Lawsuits filed due to the violation of an express contract or warranties are also allowed. The measure passed by a vote of 307-119.

"The notion that a person might sue the food industry because of weight gain when no law or warranty has been violated epitomizes the lack of personal accountability that is often promoted in an overly litigious society," said Akin. "I am pleased that the House has passed a measure to eliminate such groundless suits which would damage our economy and benefit predatory trial attorneys. I look forward to its passage in the Senate."

http://www.house.gov/akin/release/20051019.html

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