New Jersey Senate approves bill to require restaurant chains to post calorie counts

New Jersey Senate approves calorie count bill

TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Senate has approved a bill that would require fast food and restaurant chains to post calorie counts on their menus.

The bill, approved Thursday by a 22-16 vote, would require restaurant chains with 20 or more locations nationally to print nutritional information for all food and beverage items on menus, menu boards and drive-through window signs.

It’s similar to measures enacted in New York City and Philadelphia.

Proponents say the law will help consumers make healthier choices.

But restaurant owners say it’s just more expensive and unnecessary government regulation.

The bill now heads to the General Assembly.