School lunches and breakfasts must meet the nutritional standards set in the Dietary Guidelines for all Americans. Why don't the same standards apply to other food in schools?

There is a glaring gap in the law and regulations. For years, the food and beverage industry and even some school administrators have opposed bringing all school foods under the guidelines. In the late 1970s, the Department of Agriculture actually issued regulations that would have established nutrition standards for foods throughout the school, not just the school lunchroom. But the soft drink industry sued the department and successfully blocked the regulations. Since then, they've fought us in Congress and in state legislatures around the country. But I think they understand that the tide is turning. Some states have recently been successful in beating back the food industry's efforts to block sound nutrition. And increasingly, parents are calling for action too. We are also gaining support in Congress.

Why is congressional action necessary?

First of all, it's necessary because of the court decision referenced above. But more importantly, it's necessary to ensure that all kids are covered by sound nutritional guidelines.

In recent years, we've seen some states and individual school districts take action to provide healthier foods in vending machines, snack bars, and school stores. These efforts have been valuable and have made a difference for thousands of kids across the country.

Unfortunately, for every state or school district that has taken action, there are several that have taken none at all. I believe the health of our children is too important to leave to chance. We need a consistent standard for all children - a standard that ensures that they get the nutrition they need and deserve. With rates of overweight increasing rapidly, early signs of heart disease showing up in younger and younger children, and type II diabetes increasing rapidly, we need to act now.

In addition, we spend billions of taxpayer money each year for nutritionally balanced school lunches. When our kids have ready access to junk food elsewhere at school, it undermines our taxpayer investment in the health of our kids. Congressional action will promote the health of our kids and protect taxpayer investments at the same time.

What will be the impact of this legislation in reducing childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity and poor nutrition are complex issues. Turning the tide will require comprehensive solutions that engage all sectors of society, including parents, employers, the food industry, the medical profession, and others. We certainly can and must do more in our schools. I'm not so naive as to believe that my legislation alone will solve our children's nutrition problems. But it's a strong start and a foundation for future efforts. Schools should be a haven -- a place where children are not only safe, but where responsible adults model the behaviors and choices that we want our children to emulate. By giving a green light to the junk food free for all in our schools, we aren't practicing what we preach. That has to change.