Diet & Fitness Blog
Weighty Proposition: Should Fat Be a Felony?
Email PageStaff Writer
Today, the senate and house will vote on a bill insiders have dubbed "The Fat Tax." It's a revision on a healthcare bill that would make being obese a punishable offense.
Obesity is defined in the bill as "more than 20 percent over one's ideal weight based on age, height, sex and build."
Most "initial contacts" would result in nothing more than a verbal or written warning, according to government insiders. However, it is up to the officer's discretion as what to do next.
In certain situations -- in the presence of children or someone morbidly obese -- the officer would have the jurisdiction to issue a citation or even order the offender to join a weight education and management class.
Someone who refuses rehabilitation, or is repeatedly ticketed, could lose certain rights and privileges -- like their driver's license -- and even spend time in jail.
"We're paying more than $78 billion per year on healthcare for the overweight and obese," explains Debra Brumback, who was one of the sponsors of the amendment. "I think people need to be held accountable for their actions. This bill will do that."
The amendment was attached to the "Founding Ordinance on Obesity Legislation," that has been nearly a decade in the making. The bill itself is highly controversial and has found ardent opposition from groups like ELMO, Equal Law Mandates for the Overweight.
"This is ridiculous! It's just another example of the government infringing on people's rights and putting their fingers in everyone's pies -- literally," exclaims ELMO spokesman Walter "Bag of Doughnuts" Sobchak. "I eat a half-dozen doughnuts every morning for breakfast. I'd like to see the government try to stop that."
Most agree that education is the key to keeping Americans healthy, so much of the money saved on healthcare and made from fines paid would go to bringing back physical education in schools, teaching nutrition and making healthier snacks available in school vending machines.
"We have a growing epidemic in this country. Most people do struggle with their weight and, I think, will welcome this government assistance and intervention," according to Brumback, who weighs in at a svelte 125-pounds. "I mean, when I put on my freshman 15, I would have never lost that weight if I hadn't had to get three physical education credits and lost that weight in Racquetball 1113."
This all leads to myriad ethical questions about where the government's jurisdiction ends when it comes to the individual. If the bill passes, there is also a concern about certain "unhealthy foods" being considered contraband and a black market for certain goods developing much like prohibition did in the early part of 20th century and creating another niche for organized crime.
Shawn McKee graduated from the
Labels: diet, fun, government, healthy snacks, joke, laws, news, obesity
Comment by 
said... - Monday, March 31, 2008 3:38:00 PM
This whole "Fat Tax" thing is not only disgusting, but irrational. With the amount of overweight people in this country, they would have to tax everyone...wait a minute, maybe we can get rid of the national deficit!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 7:20:00 AM
I agree that this would be a tax on many of the people in the country. However, right now we basically have the same thing for healthy weight people. Health care costs have risen in large part due to our unhealthy society. Why should the healthy people have to pay for the obese people's health care? Also, in the long run this new tax will actually cost the obese people less if it inspires them to get to a more healthy weight as their long term health care costs will be less.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 7:23:00 AM
Joke as it may be this is a critical issue in the US. Obesity should be ranked with heart disease, cancer and motor vehicle accidents as a cause of death and should not be considered a joke. Most people do need to take responsibility for their actions on food consumption. The billions of $$$$ spent to treat weight related complications could be better spent on mechanisms to reverse this trend. Are we, as Americans, willing to sacrifice our lives rather than take control. This is one of the few aspects of your life that you CAN control. Thank you for the opportunity to sound off.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 7:27:00 AM
I am all for us becoming healthy! but instead of "big brother" watching our every bite what if he gives a reward for being thin...not a penalty. Wasn't positive reinforcement the way we raised our children? I am a thin, fit person and know you cannot force someone to work that hard unless they want it. Think of the size of prison that would have to be built to house all the very large people that would be in it.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 7:59:00 AM
Ok....that was not funny at all!! Moving on to the next April Fool's joke....................
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:16:00 AM
If people can't afford their own health care what makes the government think they can afford classes or fines ? Can't even imagine how this would work...
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:34:00 AM
I was reading this whole article with my mouth hanging wide open in disbelief until I read about the author and the comment "He loves a good prank, joke or trick. Don't believe everything you read. Happy April Fool's Day." What a hoot!!
Comment by 
thornewood said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:53:00 AM
If the governement is going to start charging a tax for being obese, they also need to start footing the bill for preventing and reversing obesity. It is cheaper to eat unhealthy than it is to eat healthy. The governement needs to contribute to the costs of heathy food, gym fees, personal trainers, nutrition supplements, child care while exercising, etc.
Also, there are many medications and medical conditions that cause people to gain weight despite good lifestyle choices. A generation ago, my cousin's asthma was treated with steroids, known for causing weight gain. She ended up getting her stomach stapled as an adult because of this. My son has Asperger's and is treated with Risperidone, also known for causing weight gain. We have tried to offset the effects of his medication with diet and activity, but he is still at the very upper limit of normal weight range for his height. What is the governements plan for people that are obese due to reasons beyond their control?
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:00:00 AM
I don't think that anything that can not be taxed 100% of the time the same should be a law. Everyone has their opinion about what is fat, a doctor is the only one who can determine a healthy weight and they are not even good at that, but if you tax the obese it is less likely they will even see a doctor, so does it make sense?
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:23:00 AM
ABSOLUTELY!!!! THE GOVERNMENT HAS GONE TOO FAR ON MANY THINGS!!! EDUCATION WOULD BE A BETTER SOLUTION. I BELIEVE MANY PEOPLE'S WEIGHT IS MORE OUT OF IGNORANCE AND NOT KNOWING WHAT AND HOW TO EAT. I KNOW MANY OF MY FAMILY MEMBERS DON'T HAVE A CLUE HOW TO INTERPRET THE INFORMATION ON A FOOD PRODUCT LABEL.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:25:00 AM
I think I would like to believe what the government is trying to do, which is lowering medical expenses. However, last time I checked we live in a free country or do we? Maybe the answer is to promote a healthy image in a positive way as opposed to "lose weight or go to jail". I believe the government will be stepping on our rights if this bill passes. But I also think that something needs to be done, if not for ourselves but for our children's sakes.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:45:00 AM
Great joke, but scary concept. I was getting ready to go home and tell my husband that we needed to leave the country!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:49:00 AM
Funny ... bit on this big time! Can someone please help me remove the hook from my mouth?
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:49:00 AM
I agree that people who make bad decisisions in regards to their health should be held repsonsible for their own actions. Why should healthy people have to pay higher insurance premiums to support the health problems caused by obesity? Maybe a better solution would be to refuse insurance or free health care to obese people. Either way, something should be done.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:53:00 AM
Okay. So I get that this is an April Fool's joke....but I actually think the concept is a great idea. I am tired of the obese saying "oh poor me...it's not my fault I'm overweight". It is very rare that there are medical reasons causing someone's obesity. The fact of the matter is that most obese people make poor diet choices...in both the type of food they eat and the amount of food they eat. And on top of that they don't exercise regularly...not even in their day to day lives. They take the elevator rather than the stairs...they drive around the parking lot for 10 minutes rather than taking the open spot at the back of the lot...they email their co-worker rather than walking one aisle over to speak with them face to face...etc. I also don't buy the argument that being obese doesn't hurt anyone but themselves. I'm sick and tired of paying (financially and otherwise) for their choices. Why should I have to share part of my seat/space on a bus, airplane, ballpark, theater, etc with someone simply because they do not fit in their own seat? This is just one non-financial example of how obesity negatively affects others. I am not supermodel thin, but I am a healthy weight. I love to eat and drink, but I try to make healthy choices most of the time and I exercise regularly. I'm not a super person...I'm extremely average....so if I can do it...so can others....it's really just all about choices.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:02:00 AM
I absolutely think that this law should be passed, but should contain a rider that all Americans must also get a sense of humor! We have become a nation of humorless, ultra serious, scared of everything, ready to sue over every slight people.
Happy April Fools Day!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:12:00 AM
Like someone else said if they would make it easier to eat healthier I think that America in general would. It is cheaper to grab a burger at McDonalds in lieu of a Salad so to speak. I love my Salads but when you look at the majority of people. Is it easier and faster to grab a bag of donuts or to cook a breakfast?
Today's society is a busy one and everyone is looking for the cheapest and fastest route and it isn't the healthiest by any means.
I think they need to look at giving tax credits for the exercise memberships etc and then go from there, if you give them something positive in lieu of negative. If you tax them they will fill like they could never get out of it. Give them rewards.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:30:00 AM
What a sense of "humor"? You know how to fight obesity? The manufacturers of TV's should get rid of the remote control options; people with postage stamp size yards should go back to pushing a lawn mower - not riding a mower; get rid of the high frustose corn syrup in foods - a big contributor to adding on the pounds. It is in everything we consume- under different names of ingredients!! This is just the start of a very long list of things that could be done to put a control on obesity - also teach the children how to entertain themselves - not with video games where they sit on their bottoms and don't move a muscle. All boils down to getting more exercise - moving the body not just pushing a button.
This is no joke but Happy April Fool's Day anyway.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:35:00 AM
I agree about having education to teach people to be healthy, but I disagree with being jailed for being fat. All that will cause is to make people desperate enough to turn to drugs to lose weight. Weight loss pills, meth, cocaine, etc. Then we will all end up paying more taxes to the jail system for mad drug addicted people instead of happy pleasantly plump people!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Tracy L. said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:36:00 AM
GREAT APRIL FOOL'S JOKE!!!!!!!!
You had me going! I was about to call my husband and tell him that he was going to be in trouble!!!! ;-)
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:38:00 AM
Ok yeh I fell for it too, and then I started reading some of the things people wrote. There was one in particular that really irritated me! Some people just don't get it! I am "obese" and I hardly ever go to a doctor but I know some skinny people that are there all the time. I don't feel the health insurance is a fat or skinny person problem! I do however agree with the food being cheaper if it is bad for you. I want to go into a grocery store and come out with fruits and vegies and low cal food and NOT spend a couple hundred dollars!!
You know for an April fools joke you sure got some people riled up!!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:44:00 AM
We really can't let the government do this or anything remotely like it. I can understand higher health insurance rates; that makes sense just like higher car insurance rates for those who drive irresponsibly. If we let them "tax" overweight people, who's to stop them from taxing everything?
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 11:35:00 AM
While I don't think people above the age of 18 should be charged with the fine or the felony but I think if your child is overweight you should be. The child is not able to buy there own food, you do. What else are they supposed to eat if the only food around the house is junk food. I would consider a child being overweight child abuse. The child did not ask to be overweight, they were forced to eat food that their parents gave them. Thank god the government is finally starting to smarten up and see that Americans are fat!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 11:44:00 AM
Why do they always approach a problem from a negative angle? Why not offer flex spending plans that would allow for health related expenses to be written off i.e gym memeber ships, personal training, nutrition counseling, weight equipment, health classes? Also, why not work to make healthier food choices available to people? Often the least expensive food choices are the least healthy.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 12:18:00 PM
I think its a good idea, it might be a wake up call to all the obese people which consists of 65% of the country. I think the government should allow more funds for fitness centers and personal trainers to help get these people healthy and in shape.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 12:26:00 PM
Fat Tax! Many of the really FAT people can't afford good, healthy food, so why do we think they could afford more taxes? Our society has become lazy and our kids are a reflection of that. Come on people...take pride in yourself and shape up! You are the only one that can help yourself..."God helps those who help themselves!" That's no April Fools Joke!
Comment by susan said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 1:04:00 PM
Ok so I know this is a joke but think of it this way. If they put obese people in prison then they could run it like a fat camp. 3 meals a day with 2 snacks, only proper portions, nothing unhealthy is served, everyone must exercise for an hour a day. Then if an inmate loses at least .5 lbs a week they get visiting rights for family and friends.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 1:23:00 PM
It Starts out as a joke them It becomes real. so beware. In Europe there already talk about not giving insurance to older people due to cost of keeping them alive!. So it is not to much of a streach to see the fat tax to happen here.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 1:31:00 PM
I was very concerned while reading the article and thinking this can't come to be. Then I saw it was a joke and didn't find it funny, however...you did get me thinking!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 1:43:00 PM
Riiiiight...so someone is actually suggesting that health care costs and insurance premiums will go down if the government taxes obesity? That's the biggest joke I've heard in a LONG time. Do auto insurance rates go down when people are legally forced to buy liability insurance? HECK NO they don't, and doctors and insurance companies won't take a pay cut if this goes into effect, either.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 2:37:00 PM
Wow what an April fools joke.. I did notice that most responses were from "superior" people who believe they are not in the obese catagory. I'm one of "those'people with a beer belly that I've been trying to loose most of my adult life and I don't eat junk food. I don't believe that 'those' people wake up in the morning and say "I want to get fatter today" especially with the magazine/entertainment media influence that over weight people are worthless. I sincerely believe that more marketing prime time exposure should be given to education on a healthy eating lifestyle. You see lots of anti-drug ads, why not unhealthy food ads ? Think of all the advertising spent on the fast food industry, especially during and after the dinner hour. Perhaps disclaimers of unhealthy food choices should be inserted. I could go on all day, but I do believe gov't should intervene in some form to better educate the general public and reward people with reduced health premiums for attempting to be better fit with the long term goal of a healthier lifestyle.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 2:43:00 PM
Some people have health problems or take medicine that causes overweight. Some people have mental issues that cause weight problems, and some weight problems come from genetics. It wouldn't surprise me at all if our government was trying to do this. If they are so interested in stopping rising health costs and death, when are they going to outlaw drinking? I thought we lived in a free society so why is it that other people get to dictate what we can and can't eat. I eat very healthy but still have problems due to genetics. Why don't they take some of the millions and millions of dollars they are spending on running for president and put it into the healthcare system? Better yet why don't they put some controls on what they can charge. I have insurance but can't afford the co-pays or medicine. I for one am tired of being demonized by food Nazis.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 2:45:00 PM
We had better start ticketing people who are smoking on the street then too. Second hand smoke and its effects must cost millions to the insurance companies!
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 2:59:00 PM
I am a senior citizen living on a fixed income. Fortunately I live in a part of the country where fruits and veggies are reasonably priced. Food prices keep going up and up. I just read in the naper about the grain being used for fuel and that prices will continue to rise. Over the last few years I have lost 80 pounds by eating sensibly and belonging to a support group. My dr. says I am in good shape for my age but that I need to eat more protein. HAHA. EWhat is the cheapest meat? you guessed it. Hotdogs and they are not part of a healthy diet. Meat prices are outrageous. MIlk is over $4.00 a gallon. Cheese is expensive, Eggs are not cheap. I dfo not eat out, So what is the answer? MAny fols eat a lot of starches and greasy food because of budgetary limits. For some there is no excuse. I do buy eggs and peanut butter and pork is the cheapest meat here, Fortunately it is usually lean. I also know when the managers mark down the meat that still has a couple days before it expires. It is perfectly good and can be frozen. It is estimated that there are over 40 million kids in America without adequate food.We are in a jam folks. fines and penalties are surely not the answer. With fuel prices food prices will also kjeep climbing.God help us help ourselves and keep the govt out of it.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 3:05:00 PM
Now weight a minute! They have to be kidding. Jail time just for being human!! Overweight? Hey,
we have to stand up for our rights.
OR they will be telling us how to do everything. we all know when we
need to lose a few pounds. But that should be our choice. and our doctors advice.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 3:26:00 PM
I think it should be punishable - I hope this passes! We are becoming a nation of disgusting gluttony. That PETA "donut" guy - that's not "ethical" treatment of food - it's a fatty fraternity trying to say it is OK to eat yourself to death. And I don't want to pay for that. If a person respects food, they enjoy flavors and proper cooking and high quality, not manufactured foods and fake chemicals. Go to any other country and you can pick out the Americans... they're the ones that look like the beached whales.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 3:56:00 PM
kay, this is a decent idea and all, but this will really hurt some people's self esteem seriously what if the person is already working on losing weight and is succeeding, and actually is starting to feel good about themselves again and a cop comes up and tickets them for being fat? i really think this won't go over well.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 3:57:00 PM
I am overweight and I've not been
to a doctor in years. But I know alot of people, big or slim that go
to the doctor every time their nose
runs. For people like me it would
be really nice to get a rebate for
not useing our insurance.
Also I work full time and pay for my insurance,and I am not on any
meds.
Also there are alot of slim people
that have the same health problems
as obese people.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 4:00:00 PM
This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of. The government needs to worry more about the economic crisis and less about the publics PERSONAL life.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 5:28:00 PM
At first I was floored by this artical, I could not beleive it the government has gone too far. Then I got the joke. What really caught my eye were all the comments that were thrown in. One, most people are unaware that alot of the health problems that go wrong with a person is genetic, including obesity.
Two, another reason why alot of people eat junk food, as already been stated, is cheaper than the healthy food. And the fuel costs are one of the main reasons for that.
Three, because people don't have enough time to throw together a meal that takes an hour, because they are taking thier kids to what ever practice they are signed up for (soccer, football, cheerleader). And because a all adults in the household in MOST households have to work to keep a roof over their heads, food on the table, and cloths on their back.
Four, a person may have a medical reason.
Five, how do you know if these people haven't already tried every diet in the book.
Six, have you ever thought that there was a psychological reason for them eating the way they do?
There are so many reasons out there for the reason that people haven't lost weight, and to point your finger and blaime is very childish and ignorant.
Think people! I am going through nursing school and realizing the why's and how's of the way things work in the human body and it is a lot harder than you think. Some people are lucky and some are not. And I happen to be one of the lucky ones.
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 5:56:00 PM
Joke or not, all of the responses sadden me. How judgemental some of the people are in this forum. Yes, it seems that I am appearing that way as well, but my goodness! How hard have people worked in this country to combat biggotry? After reading some of these comments, it seems that it was for nothing. Sure, people should take better care of themselves, but it isn't always about food. How about the kids who don't get more than 15 mintues of recess because the schools are more consumed with test scores than they are with the kids overall well being? How about the dual income families who work long hours, sit in long traffic jams and still barely have enough to afford the healthier choices? Everyone has a vice, and before you point your skinny finger at the "fat" person, you better take a long, hard look at your own struggles and see if you want a fine on those. Should we fine the person who worries too much? Should we fine the person who is too nosy? April Fool's joke or not, we need to find ways to support each other in this country rather than push people down. Give credits for healthy weights. Give rebates on insurance for either not using it or a healthy lifestyle. Focus on prevention rather than just punishment. Besides, wouldn't more than half of congress fall prey to this tax? Look at Ted Kennedy...
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:38:00 PM
YA I FELL FOR IT TOO... GREAT CREATIVITY TO WHO WROTE IT!!! However i would like to voice my oppinion in anyway. Who knows maybe it will really come to fruition with government being what it can be at times. What happened to the land of the FREE where we can be who and what we want and have a right to be. Being fat only hurts the person who is overweight. How about giving incentives to loose the weight instead of punishment, like tax breaks on fresh foods that are healthier for us and compensation and tax breaks on a gym membership or exercise equipment, and more or better walking trails in the communities. Good grief. :(
Comment by said... - Tuesday, April 01, 2008 8:48:00 PM
Wouldn't it be great! I mean, we would raise the suicide rate in America exponentially. So much for gas prices, and job security, everyone would be dead so there would be far less demand on our pocketbooks. Maybe then we could all afford to take up a hobby, like skydiving.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 12:00:00 AM
If they did this, then they should also pass a bill that makes cigarette smoking a punishable offense since children and even babies are exposed to cigarette smoke by people who don't care who they offend.
Comment by said... - Thursday, April 03, 2008 12:56:00 AM
Man most excellent joke. I was all red in the face and angry that once again the government would try to gain that kind of control on people. Although I wouldn't put it past the government to try something like it. Health is an important issue but weight gain or loss is a personal choice whether healthy or not.
Comment by Clinton Walker III said... - Thursday, April 03, 2008 9:10:00 AM
Comment by said... - Saturday, April 05, 2008 3:37:00 PM
My God, you really had me there for a moment, I actually started to panic for a minute. I started having visions of cops pulling me over and giving me a bunch of tickets that I can't afford to pay. This would be an awful way to encourage any over weight person to loose weight, we'd be too scared to leave the house to go exercise!
I agree something needs to be done, but the idea that people think that over weight people are bad people who should be fined and sent to jail really makes me angry. I'm a good person! I've never done anything to deserve to go to jail.
I think a good place to start would be with the food industry. Everywhere you go the portions are out of control. There are a few places where one can now find Weight Watchers items, and smaller portions, but they are few and far between, and the fast food restaurants are seriously not helping. Everything is available in Super Size, and yes a person can choose the smaller portioned items, but the fact that the larger items are there in temptations way is a lot of people's downfall.
Today's small was what I grew up with as a medium, what does that say about the food industry's concern for their patrons health?
Healthy food is expensive, so to promote healthier eating, I say lower the cost of health food and increase the cost of unhealthy foods. If someone orders a steak with vegetables and fruit as their side items it should cost less than if they ordered the steak with potatoes and mac and cheese. And if you even have room for desert, it should be one of the more pricey items on the menu.
Well that is my opinion on the matter. I know this was meant as a joke, and it was a pretty good one as far as coming off as believable, but it also scared the crap out of me. Food has been my vice for a long time, and I have taken drastic and expensive steps to get my eating under control. I had gastric bypass surgery so I can no longer eat the way I used to, but I still have a long way to go before I reach a healthy weight, and so the thought of being fined for being large is terrifying. I paid for that surgery with my own money, I do not have insurance, so it didn't cost anybody else but me to have it. I'm not benefiting from anybody else's taxes. So my weight is on me and no one else.
Comment by said... - Friday, April 18, 2008 9:40:00 AM
Okay so this was meant as a joke, but it really made a lot of people think as evidenced by the responses. How about this...let's make the health insurance companies cover gastric banding and diet program expenses. Yes, it might raise costs initially but in the end you'd have healthier people with less medical expenses.
Comment by bill said... - Wednesday, April 30, 2008 3:10:00 PM
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Comment by Redheadedrennie said... - Thursday, September 04, 2008 10:04:00 AM
I am not going to lie. I am one of those overweight people. I can't blame my parents, I mean yes, they weren't the healthiest eaters, but I could have asked them to buy me certain things, but I did not. After highschool I was still heavy, I managed to lose fifty pounds, and even though I am still a bit overweight I know I am fat, and I know it's no ones fault but my own. I believe in MOST cases... NOT ALL because of certain health problems, but yes in MOST cases when someone is obese it is their fault. I get so aggrivated everytime someone who doesn't have a health problem as an excuse say "it's not my fault I am obese." No its not your fault that you opted for the fatty greasy hamburger and fries from McDonalds instead of a much healthier sub from subway or a salad. Yes I know there is a bit of a difference in price, but think about it this way, is your health worth it? I know mine is. I hate to say this but I think at tax or something of that nature is needed.Jail time is a bit too much, that's not necessary. It might make people wake up and realize "I'm not making the right, healthy choices". Instead of crying and feeling sorry for yourself everytime you eat something or a lot of something you know you shouldn't have eaten, just make the conscious effort to not eat it, or walk to make up for it. It's because the obese feel sorry for themselves they want others to feel sorry for them. I cannot I am sorry. I have no one to blame but myself so why should I expect others to pity me and feel sorry for me. I honestly think if a tax was put in place, it might snap my butt in to gear even quicker to become healthier. I'm still losing weight, I've joined a gym, I walk to work and anywhere that is two miles or less away from where I live. I know my problem, and I am fixing it, what are you doing?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:48:00 AM
This Can't B real. Come on. With all that is goin on in the country and goverment,someone has the time to spend writing this. They should tunnel there time to a REAL issue. Donate there time to feed the homeless. Donate there time to animal rescue. Stop dog fight brothels.These ppl need to look outside there perfect world and C how the rest are livin.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:51:00 AM
So here is one more hurdle for those of us who fight the daily battle with weight. Now we will have the stress of legal fears to contend with, as well as, our own demons. I admit that there are those who demand huge amounts of health insurance dollars for their obesity, but wouldn't a more efficient use of government time be spent reining in their own addiction to spending. Like any addiction, overeating is a problem, but it is not one that will be solved with strong arm tactics against its victims.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 6:48:00 AM
I wish it wasn't a joke! Healthcare costs are soaring and America just keeps getting fatter and fatter, yet everyone tiptoes around the obese as to not hurt their feelings......why can't smokers catch a break???? Seriously, we are now being taxed to death for of all things, to pay for children's healthcare bill!!!! How hypocritical to attach something as important as children's healthcare to smokers! The government is making it next to impossible for us to smoke, telling us we MUST quit but in the same breath hoping and praying we keep smoking in order to pay for this latest bill! People have absolutely no sympathy for smokers, even though it is an addiction, we are treated like criminals, yet we all step lightly around FAT people, yes, I said FAT, as to not upset them, they don't have an addiction, they just don't know when to stop eating!!! This country needs to wake up, I would love a Fat Tax, let these obese people and the children they are raising to be obese pay for their own healthcare and give the rest of us a break.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 7:33:00 AM
Great April's joke... got me right up to the end. I noticed the comments were written last year on April fools day 2008. I'm one of those people who was very athletic and now, in my 50's, can't seem to get my weight under control. I've tried so many "systems", but I was hungry all the time and never really satisfied. Anyway, I do believe that if you are working out and a have joined any weight lose program, it should be reflected in your health care premiums as a preventative measure indicating at least, you are 'trying'.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 7:45:00 AM
This absolutely goes too far. It will set up a whole class system as well--the "thin" vs. the "fat." The Thinnies will get all the goodies and priviledges, while the "Fatties" will become like the lowest castes in India. It's riduculous. And darn near unenforceable.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 7:50:00 AM
Hey that was just a great joke, fortunately, i didn't rush to tell my colleagues about that, or they would just have laughed back at me.
But the truth is that we don't eat healthy all the time, due to individual reasons. No matter how far the mass is being educated and sensitised about the obesity problem and the need for physical exercise and proper eating habits, it's just that we have changed our life style over the years. We have money so we prefer to eat out, or we don't have time, we just buy anything pre-cooked and heat it in the microwave... Our cultural identity has changed and we need to reinvent ourselves to keep our kids and ourselves in good health.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 8:15:00 AM
Not funny,I felt my chest tighten and the room began to spin. As a Plus Size grannie who spends less and less time anwhere near the public eye that was a horrible joke. If it had been real or ever does become real it would be much like the homosexual witch hunts of the past. Mental hospitals,FAT beatings,all the other misguided cleansing of the population of good people. Go after child molesters and grappy abusive parents first and you might see the fat (non-confrontational) coping stop on it's own.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 8:33:00 AM
THIS IS AN OUTRAGE!!!!
I'M NOT FAT AND I THINK THIS IS A REAL SHAME, SHAME ON THE GOVERMENT IF THEY PASS THIS AND SHAME ON US IF WE DON'T SPEAK UP....
Comment by Wig Guru said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 9:21:00 AM
LMAO. Did anyone read the entire story. It is a APRIL FOOLS DAY JOKE! AND A VERY GOOD ONE because I would suggest instead of issuing citations, the government should have free healthcare education. U shouldnt punish someone for something they didnt know.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 9:29:00 AM
This must be an April's Fools Joke. But it would be just like the government to let the companies who produce crap unhealthy trans fat and GM foods off the hook and suck it to the people. I am officially off the idea of government, we are like sheep being fattened for slaughter. I think revolution has come if we can get our asses off our couches!!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 9:46:00 AM
im not shure if this is the way to help those that are over weight may be a time period with proper techniques giving those whom are overweight a chance to get healthy before the extreme of tickiting them. and if within that time period they arent doing anyting to help them selfs putting restrictions on ins. all americans have freedom of speach now they dont have freedom of what to eat. im not shure its up to the government to ticket but something has to be addresed there are to many obese people in the usa. its an epidemic
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:19:00 AM
This is the stupidest thing i've ever heard in my entire life. If you've ever takin a nutrition class you would've learned that weight has something to do with genetics. Some people are just born with a skinny gene. They can eat five slices of pizza, and a gallon of ice cream and never excercise and not gain a pound. So this bill is one sided and unfair to those who don't possess this trait. Another problem is the disabled who cannot exercise. What are you gunna tax the shit outta them because they can barely move, and put on some weight...
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:36:00 AM
Singapore has something like this in place already.. and they do not have obese people. I think that maybe its not a bad idea.. although not sure a ticket or tax is the way to go, I think we should concentrate on the younger generations.. and possibly and stress it with them..
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:43:00 AM
This is ridiculous. Does anyone realize how flawed the BMI rating system is? I weigh a HEALTHY 200 lbs, and am 5'4", in great shape and I wear a size 10-12. I am NOT obese. But according to the BMI system I am. I am built this way, and if I were to drop to 150 as the BMI suggests I should, I would probably die from starvation and anorexia. This is so unjust! They should start taxing alcoholics and smokers too! THOSE ARE CONTROLLABLE TOO! And hello, close minded morons, some people have thyroid issues, some people truly cannot control how big they are. This is like saying we're going to start taxing all of the elderly for being too damn old just because we pay for them to live healthy lives. How much more heartless can this country get?
Comment by Grace said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:47:00 AM
my weight hasnt cost the government a penny, in fact if
i could afford to go to a doctor and receive the thyroid treatment that i need i would not be over weight. being overweight actually is proof positive that I have not used government assistance. so blaahhh!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:53:00 AM
Love it!! hahaha Happy April Fool's Day people! come on...u really think this is true?!?!?
this article does touch on an issue that needs to be addressed, but its still one interesting prank.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:53:00 AM
thank god it;s a joke - I started to look for my congressman's phone number!!!!!!! then I was going to email the whitehouse.
Good prank. I certainly fell for it!
Comment by Adrienne said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:57:00 AM
Why stop there lets tax the Anorexics for wasting our time, and the bulimics for wasting food which could have been given to starving Africans.
Joke now but we have idiots for politicians who look for anything or anyone to tax in-order to line their pockets, and say they're doing it for the "greater good".
They take opposing groups and play them off each other.
This article might be a joke now but I'm not laughing.
Comment by Little said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:59:00 AM
This is ridiculous. If you people do not complain and say 'NO WAY' to this along with myself, then you can just
KISS GOODBYE
another one of your ultimate and INALIENABLE rights - you are BORN with the right to decide for yourself what you put into your own body and how to run your own life. The government is already infringing upon your personal freedom with its stupid war on drugs. Each person is responsible and able to decide for himself what he puts into his body, be it a donut or a weed brownie! By supporting the government and their war on drugs and fat tax - you are saying that YOU are not RESPONSIBLE enough to decide what you put into your own body. Are you that stupid that you cannot decide? Plus, if a person wants to ruin his life shooting up heroine, that is his problem - not mine, not yours, especially not the governments. People are sooo dumbed down these days and they can't even see the true agenda.
The government has gotten way too big and out of control. People in this country are all rx'ed up and ASLEEP (it is their right to be these things, but not for long). Not to mention, we are headed full force into socialism. Also, kiss goodbye the dollar and say hello to the New World Order.
WAKE UP ALL YOU SHEEP!!! President TELEPROMPTER is not your savior! It's already almost too late.
And say no to this ridiculous tax on fat. What's next? Tax on hair that is too long? Or noserings? Or houses that are too big?
President Nobama needs to go, along with the rest of the democrats AND republicans. They are both two faces on the same coin. Do some research and see who's at the top of the pyramid pulling all of the strings. You won't like what you come up with.
But that would require you complacent people to AWAKEN YOURSELVES- and learn the truth- which, sadly, is way too horrific for most of you to handle.
But I'd rather see past the shadows on the cave wall than live a life where knowledge is withheld.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:00:00 AM
I agree that obesity is in epidemic proportions, but this is going too far. It has been shown that the ingredients in the foods we eat are responsible. How many foods on the market have msg and high fructose corn syrup. They need to start there and with educating the consumer. Also, obesity isn't the only issue in healthcare; what about people who drink too much, smoke too much, and take too many medications. Many of our ills are from being over medicated with prescription medicine, not even to mention how easy it is to acquire street drugs. Yes, Yes the government is going too far when they infringe on our personal rights. It should be up to the individual how they choose to manage their health. Anytime the government offers to help you, watch out!!!!! It's never without a pricetag.
Comment by ♫..M..☆ said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:02:00 AM
Having already noticed the Astros were moving to Dallas, I was only fool enough to click on the link to the blog before it dawned that it would be April Fool's all day!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:06:00 AM
Let's make all the overweight people take up smoking to lose weight.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:10:00 AM
Not all people are obese because of food consumption or lack of excercise. Close-minded idiots that think being obese is always a choice should look into all of the medical reasons why a person CAN not lose weight no matter how hard they try. I'm fit, but I'm fat. I can run with the best of you, but I can not lose a single pound thanks to a syndrome called Poly-cystic ovarian syndrome. Even with four prescriptions, excercise, and healthy food, I have not lost a pound in over a year!!! Do you think I'm ashamed? I am. But only because I know there are so many people out there who do NOT understand my struggle and only look at me as some fat chick.....I work hard. Maybe I should wear a sign, but it would only make the morons stare all that much harder.....look it up!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:15:00 AM
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH THIS... there are way to many fat, over weight people that are sick and living off the goverment and our tax dollars... and their problems would decrease if they would just loose weight.... And I know i have battled my husband x wife over step daughters weight... we control it while she is here but every other weekend she gains 7-9 lbs over the weekend... the doctor says she is morbidly obese...so YES!YES!YES! PASS THIS!!!!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:18:00 AM
Welcome to socialism! What a waste of tax dollars to administer such a plan. What about national security? Maybe this is an April Fools article, but then again, Obama and crew are certainly capable of this.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:19:00 AM
well thats crap... APRIL FOOL"S... the only FOOLS are the ones over eating.... this is not a joke and nothing to joke about.Our goverment puts out hundreds and thousands of tax payers money to take care of people that most of there problems is caused from OVER EATING
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:19:00 AM
Before we tax people for excess body weight, let's tax them for the excess cultural artifacts they drag around, store and trade. For example, for every pound of body weight, lets allow 10X that much weight for a machine to carry them around. Any 200lb person driving a 3,000lb car would pay tax on the extra 1,000lbs of self-aggrandizing plastic and steel.
Then lets tax psychological baggage. Anyone who needs a "partner" must pay a tax for all the suffering their petty bickering causes the rest of us. Anyone with a "religion" would pay a tax based on the depth of their beliefs, unless they profess their nonsense around children or vulnerable adults. In such cases, we could isolate offenders in reeducation camps.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:19:00 AM
Very funny, I almost bought it. For those of you who are saying that obesity is genetic, forget it, take it from a geneticist. You will find that most health problems have a genetic component, but with the exceptional rare disorder, these are modified by environmental and life style changes.
Legislation we really need: free wellness consultations and programs with health care professionals, bicycle and walking paths and routes so we don't have to take cars for even short trips, and community gardens to bring down the price of organic, high quality food while providing an enjoyable way to exercise.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:20:00 AM
I think it is a great idea. I hate it when I see a Fat Person with Handicap Licence plates. Your fat not handicaped. Maybe if you stayed out of Mc Donalds you would be healthier. I watch what I eat and drink and itry to exercise. Sitting in front of the tv eating bon bons is not the answer. But a few months in jail with the incentive of loose weight to gain your freedom has a nice ring to it.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:26:00 AM
... You guys know that this is obviously and April Fools joke, right? Way to fail, lawlz.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:27:00 AM
What's next - outlawing using more than one square of toilet paper - the government needs to tend to fixing the economy.
And maybe, if parents and others didn't live on fast food - they wouldn't be fat.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:36:00 AM
Get rid of the national deficit!?!?! Only if Obama will stop with all of the phony stimulus packages!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:41:00 AM
Funny, funny, funny! Loved the article and the idiotic comments are even better! I'm so tired of hearing supposedly healthy people whine about haveing to "pay" for obese peoples issues. First, you should know its considered pre-existing and is never covered by health insurance. Second, those same "healthy" people usually smoke,drink, and have the same lazy lifestyles as their larger counterparts.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:43:00 AM
Weight a minute - maybe we could get rid of Mr. Obama and most of congress!
Comment by jennifer said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:46:00 AM
I would to be thin if I had a paid personal trainer. And that
Trainer came to my complete home gym
Then yes I would be thinner. The govt
Is getting up close and personal, who te
They the ones who get paid to do what ever
Makes them happy. I think of they want us
To be thin because we ate spending too
Much money on health care, then maybe we
Should take a look at the expense of our
Over paid govt. I may be stupid but I thought
We were founded on" for the people of the
People and by the people."
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:47:00 AM
Even if this is a joke, I think the US government has to do something to promote nutrition in our society. We put warning labels on cigarettes and some people are denied medical and life insurance due to smoking, why not start treating obesity in a similar manner - it's something that can kill you! If people don't have a reason to be healthy and fit then the US is going to have healthcare costs continue to rise as the obeses people will need severe medical treatment as a result. That's reality - obesity is killing our country and destroying our medical system!
Comment by Leslie said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:47:00 AM
Soooo pay for them to be obese or dont? Hhhmmm, I say if they wish to be obese or are due to things as a child then they, themselves, should take on that role to pay. Once they see how much their weight is not only affecting themselves but everyone around them, maybe they will care not only more about themselves but think of others too. Because you know at least half of obese people don't understand how much money from the government aka from us, the people, they use.
Comment by Rachel said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:49:00 AM
This is Rediculous! Granted we have a society that has a serious weight problem but Taxing and ostricising Obesity is not the answer to help these people.
Comment by Jessica said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:51:00 AM
I agree there needs to be more education about healthy eating especially in low income areas, however, why aren't there healthy options in school already. We are creating a nation of unhealthy people as it is there should be a point where that changes. I think this bill as it stands would have a negative impact and potentially hinder the obese society from wanting to lose weight.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:54:00 AM
I am so glad to see that everyone has sooo many opinions. Just how many of you are single parents that are working two jobs to make ends meet and has very little time to stand in front of a stove and prepare a "healthy" meal versus grabbing something and Mcd's drivethru because you are so exhausted!!! Before you hand out all this free advice about someone being lazy check your own "backyard" and see where your weaknesses are before you are so quick to judge!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:55:00 AM
Instead of fining the individual, let's look to and fine the junk food manufacturers who create JUNK food and let's just tax the heck out of sugar! Much like they have done with tobacco. Those who choose to partake can PAY to partake.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:59:00 AM
Thankfully this was a joke article - you really got me!
However, its content really didn't surprise me. I mean, this is the government that is working to pass legislation to tell us all what kind of car we're allowed to own - they're working to take away personal freedoms all in the name of "protecting the environment."
Too many freedoms have been threatened and removed in the name of protecting something. It's got to stop.
Comment by psalm27sjb said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:00:00 PM
I realize this is an April Fool's joke, but as far as I'm concerned, it's in poor taste. Since laws like this are being passed in some countries, I don't see the humor in this at all. I myself have lost 45 lbs, and that has taken considerable effort. The idea that the government would fine, restrict or even possibly incarcerate me for not dropping pounds "fast enough" is simply no laughing matter...especially for those of us who are working hard to make the progress we have, but still have a long way to go. Just my opinion...
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:02:00 PM
What a lame joke. Yet...it would not surprise me if this happened in one form or another. In fact, I can easily imagine people being euthanized as well when they can no longer produce a certain amount of money. All I can say to people with such a greedy outlook on human life/condition is - hope you enjoy hell.
Oh and guess what Anonymous #2 - most people apparently DO take responsibilty for their weight - what do you think the billion buck weight loss industry feeds on? Many other health factors can affect the situation but hey, let's blame the victim it's easier than thinking it out. Self-righteous tard.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:02:00 PM
Too bad this is a joke. I've felt for a long time that there should be some kind of extra tax or something on junk food just like there is on cigarettes and alcohol. Seems to me that just as many people have health issues from being overweight as they do from smoking or drinking.
Comment by kate said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:07:00 PM
I'd like to respond to the senior citizen who eats responsibly, and has put forth the effort to be healthy. GOOD FOR YOU! You stated that your doctor says you need more protein. Easily solved on a VERY small budget. Get the book "Diet for a Small Planet" and learn about protein complementarity. I have raised a very healthy family on high-protein, low fat, high fiber vegetarian diets. We do eat meat, but as a treat. It can be done!
Comment by Me said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:10:00 PM
Wasn't this the same joke used last year on April Fool's? Couldn't someone come up with a new idea?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:11:00 PM
Instead of taxing fat people why they concentrate in cutting fast food market, like restaurants, fast food in the stores. Why they don't think about lowering the price on fruits or having educational programs in our schools etc.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:14:00 PM
Great April Fool's joke. However the whole time I was reading it, I was thinking how most of the officers where I live are very large themselves. Couldn't imagine getting a citation from someone that needs to lose more weight than I do.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:14:00 PM
Thanks to Shawn McKee for a great start to my April Fool's Day! And to the person who (sarcastically) suggested taxing bulimics for wasting food. As a recovering bulimanoretic, I found that hilarious! :)
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:15:00 PM
You got me....April Fools! You did make me think about this issue. That was a good one. (I haven't been fooled for years.)
Comment by GMACandy said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:15:00 PM
One thing, I may be fat but I make love better that any skinny cold bitch!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:15:00 PM
Don't we pay enough taxes??? What about a tax for bad teeth, or poor handwriting or blue eyes??? This is out of control.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:16:00 PM
HA! HA! Good one! Pretty slick there, Shawn, and I can't believe the comments on here that didn't see it was a joke!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:16:00 PM
April Fool joke or not, shame on you people thinking punishment is the answer. Obesity, and out of control eating is a sickness, lower the price on these so called weight centers and educate people , not throw them in jail or ticket them for something that is out of their control.
Comment by GMACandy said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:17:00 PM
This is no joke. I heard about this on the news a few weeks ago, sadly.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:24:00 PM
This is hilarious! If only it were true!
Anyone who doesn't agree with this only doesn't because they're overweight. Honestly, unless you have a medical condition there's no excuse to be as big as some of the people in this country are. I have my cake and eat it, too and still manage to weight my appropriate weight. Why? Because when I eat my cake I don't eat the whole thing and then another and another and then go sit on my couch all day long. GET UP, WORK OUT, AND STOP EATING ALL THOSE DOUGHNUTS.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:24:00 PM
HAHAHAHA!!!! wow that was a good prank! you really got me with that one. hahaha...wow i was like "This Fat Tax is going to cause quite a stir" but i thought it was a great idea to help the issue of weight in this country! lol. good one good one. what would motivate you more then getting tax for being fat?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:26:00 PM
Absolutely not! I blame the FDA and big drug companies, that have allowed HIGH FRUTOSE CORN SYRUP in almost everything we eat. It is big $$ for all of them. WHAT A JOKE THE GOVERMENT AND FDA IS.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:27:00 PM
I am one of the obese. I certainly believe that every individual should be accountable for their actions. The obese become accountable due to the health restrictions and daily activities they cannot perform. The government has no business trying to stick their noses into peoples personal lives they do way to much of that already. If they are looking to cut back on governmental costs they should start with some of the stupid things they allow grants for. Sure the obese thing is certainly a problem but if you've never been this way you should keep your mouth shut and try understanding the problem not find ways to make people more ashamed of themselves. The government should concentrate on the governmental issues and stay out of peoples pockets. This sounds like another way to put more money in the pockets of those who don't need it and take more away from those who don't have in the first place. Question #1 should be what can people afford to buy not how much more can we take from them in fines.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:27:00 PM
The only problem is that this is actually believable in this political environment, as well as so many comments actually supporting the whole idea. Nanny state - the state says do this and all you get to do is say how high and what color.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:27:00 PM
If the government will pay for me to go to fat camp, and for my own personal chef.. I'm ALL for it. I could definitely lose 20 pounds!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:34:00 PM
I have to agree with the Fat Tax. I see too many families that are obese. The kids suffer the most. It's sad when these kids can't even walk or run. I think the parents should be held accountable.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:35:00 PM
HA!!! I totally believed this. I was getting angry b/c the government shouldn't have jurisdiction over a person's body, what they choose to eat and how much they weigh. I agree obesity is a problem and that education and access to healthier, affordable foods are the key. I have had the luxury of parents who stressed eating healthy and maintaining an active lifestyle, but not all are so lucky. In reality, some people ultimately make their own choice, even with the foresight of knowledge, and that is their right to do so.
Bravo on the April Fools joke!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:40:00 PM
Had me going there until the end! Happy April Fool's Day! Although I wouldn't be surprised if the government did something like this in the future for real.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:45:00 PM
How bout spending some government money wisely for a change...I realize this is a rather new concept, but how about educating people on healthier food choices, exercising, open some gyms. I think they've completely went OVERBOARD
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:51:00 PM
ok, i really hope this a april fools day joke. because taxing the fat folks just aint right. being that i am one i can say that. whats so sad is that is was so outrageous and stupid but could it be possible?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:52:00 PM
Obama is amazing. He forgets that some obese people actually pay for their own healthcare. Not all of us suck off the government teat.
Don't tread on me, Mr. Obama.
Comment by Natasha said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 12:58:00 PM
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:02:00 PM
The problem with such a proposition is determining who is obese and who isn't. People with broad, athletic builds tend to be both heavier for a given height as well as healthier. At 5' 6" I weigh over 170 lbs--which translates to a BMI of over 27--yet no one looking at me would say that I am fat.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:09:00 PM
I'm sorry but this is totally WRONG. It would be better for them to legislate portion sizes in restaurants than to criminalize being fat. When you start reading the research, you start realizing all of the complexities reagarding weight. For some people, it really is a matter of over-eating. But those people may need both psychological counseling and addiction services to break free of their ties to food. For other people, it's a health issue. A lot of newer research is showing the direct association between illnesses, hormone disorders, systemic inflammation and obesity. How in God's name do you dare legislate that!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:11:00 PM
Good luck Americans...
You can't even take care of yourselves with healthcare how do you suppose people will deal with fines.. I am sure there are more obese people than regular average people in America.
That is kinda sterotyping in it's own way.. "Here is your ticket cause your fat" ... yeah nice that will get alot more people to work out.. as they get more depressed..
Take out the fast food industry.. that is what is making the world go down.
Comment by Beany's Menu said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:12:00 PM
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:20:00 PM
Its amazing how many people don't tend to read the full article. Funny, yet controversial at the same time, seems to have brought up a lot of opinions. Good thing that freedom of speech is still existent huh? Or the usage of our own opinions are still allowable. If people had more of an open mind and stuck them selves in other people's shoes instead of automatically judging what others seem to be because they don't fit their idea of what one should be, look, feel etc. the society as a whole would be of better help to others then condemning everything just because you don't like it. Face it, if you breathe too long your going to die. There is no one who is immune to death. Regardless if your a health nut or a couch potato when your time has come, your done here. Regardless if your skinny or fat, we all pay taxes. No one is fault free! Society has its own vision and if we all lived by it, this world still wouldn't be adequate enough.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:21:00 PM
YOU A - hole I can't believe this is a joke!!! However, I'm a dietitian and I have the simple way to slow down obesity TAX JUNK FOOD. We already tax alcohol and smokes it's time to tax all the big killers Mc's, BK's, chips, candy and (sorry ladies) ice cream. There is no way anything like taxing humans for being overweight would happen in a country like AMERICA - save it for the commies.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:33:00 PM
The sad thing is, soon it may not be just a April fools joke. The grovernment is out of control. Don't get me wrong I am PROUD to be and American but our government is screwed up and only getting worse. They are probably trying to come up with a way to do this as we speak. I am overweight, I struggle trying to lose weight that I put on during my pregnancy, 2 years ago, and have not been able to lose 10 pounds without putting them right back on. If insurance companies and health departments would not make it so hard to get the appetite suppresants and weight loss drugs that would help people to control and manage their weight, I seriously doubt that we would have as many people overweight in this country. They can say, oh if you have money for food then you have money for medication. Spending a couple dollars at the Dollar Menu or on the countless low cost, unhealthy items in the supermarket, makes a big difference than $20-$50-$100-$1000 for prescriptions and doctors visits to obtain the prescriptions. If you are overweight and it takes you more than the average person to get full, it is absolutely financially impossible for you to buy nothing but large quanities of health food. Unhealthy food is a lot better on the pocket.
Comment by Cheryl said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:34:00 PM
I think that being overweight is not something that one wants to be. I am overweight and I have an eating disorder. I work daily to improve myself. A food addiction is like being an alcholic, etc. Are the other addicts going to be taxed too? They all have health issues from self-abuse.
Comment by Bonnie said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:39:00 PM
History repeats itself. We have always heard this saying.
2 Kings, chapter 23
(The message bible)
Meanwhile Jehoiakim, like a good puppet, dutifully paid out the silver and gold demanded by Pharaoah. He scraped up the money by gouging the people, making everyone pay an assessed tax.
It may be an April fools joke.... WAKE UP! Do you think Big Brother is going to pass up an opportunity for more taxes?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:40:00 PM
The major problem I see with this tax is if they base this on people's BMI. I am 5'10" and 201 pounds, according to my BMI I am overweight but if you look at me I look far from over weight, I am just big boned. I have also heard plenty of other people having the same problem. Other than that I think they need to do something about the obesitity problem in this country and taking away P.E in schools isn't helping
Comment by Tanya said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:40:00 PM
This is an infringement on personal freedom. Being obese is a right if people want to live that way. What should be done is allowing insurances to raise rates/drop obese people from the policy if they want to.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:41:00 PM
This "Fat Tax" is a joke!!! It is irrational, Obama and the government are all a bunch of idiots. Almost every person in this country would get a penalty, what has this world come to? Some overweight people can't afford health insurance.The government should not have control of your weight.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:41:00 PM
The "Fat Tax" is disgusting, and unfair. What happened to our contitutionl right's. It is no bodies business how fat I am but mine. No one wants to be fat!! It happens because of the food the the public is offered in the stores. Make fast food illegal, make unhealthy snack food illegal. Force the country to do something about 24hr non stop tv, computers video games, so our kids will go out and play again. And Men will get off the couch and women will stop sitting and watching soap opera's. Food is too easy to get, too cheap and our lives our too easy. If you could not get pizza delivered to your door 24hrs a day and have fast food ready and waiting 24 7 maybe we would not be so fat.
Comment by Steve said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:42:00 PM
I don't think legislation will be a positive approach to fixing the overweight issue. I do however think that medical bills caused by obesity shouldn't be paid for by the taxpayers. Get healthy or pay for your own healthcare.
It sounds harsh, but I have struggled with my weight all of my life. I don't blame anyone else except myself. I am the one putting the food in my mouth and no doing as much exercise. It is not the taxpayers fault I am overweight - so they shouldn't (and they don't) pay for any medical bills I may have.
The biggest hurdle for American's weight problem is pointing the finger at yourself. It was your choice to mac down a Big Mac!
Wake up America and take responsibility for your own actions.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:46:00 PM
I agree that people should adopt a healthier lifestyle, but it's unrealistic to expect for everyone to be 'just so'. That's almost going back to the Nazi's who thought that everyone had to look and be 'just so' in order to be accepted...otherwise they were killed. Not cool at all. There are medical conditions that could cause obesity, there are family genes that predispose people to heavier weights...etc. Everyone should educate themselves on the realities of what can cause obesity, not just focus on one side of it.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:48:00 PM
This government is going waaaay too far in trying to control every aspect of people's life! If this passes, I believe Congress should be the first to go to jail! More than half of the members are morbidly obese. So I can't believe they would vote for it. Common sense seems to have vacated Washington. By the way, thin people cost this nation a huge amount in health-related costs because of other unhealthy actions. Are they going to tackle every unhealthy action taken by everyone? If so, we may as well start building prisions because everyone, even President Obama, who smokes, will be incarcerated for unhealthful behavior!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:58:00 PM
They should impost a stupidity tax on people who fail to read complete articles before commenting on them. How many people missed, "Shawn McKee graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a BA in Journalism and has written for The Broward and Miami New Times. He loves a good prank, joke or trick. Don't believe everything you read. Happy April Fool's Day!"
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:01:00 PM
This "reporter" just put another hole in his own credibility with this "April Fool's" article.
Comment by Michelle said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:11:00 PM
The funniest thing about this article is the comments from the people who believed it. Hilarious.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:12:00 PM
I work very hard at keeping my weight in check, every single day, I go with out foods I want to eat. I keep my calories at 1200 per day and it is not easy. I am physically active 5 days a week, even if it means running in the dark of evening or early morning. If an obese person did all of this I would agree they should not be singled out. Generaly you will not find this the case. People are obese for a reason. If they need help they should get it. If they had to pay higher health insurance for all the additional problems obese people have, I think that would be fair. To burden the rest of us with higher insurance premiums to offset this is not fair and it is happening.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:14:00 PM
Funny joke, but i agree that Obesity is a huge problem, but it is the persons problem. Everyone should be concerned about their health and should watch their weight..
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:14:00 PM
This "joke" makes me realize that people are still extremely ignorant about health and health care. Thin does NOT necessarily equal healthy. And fat does not necessarily equal unhealthy in any way other than not being the recommended weight.
MANY people who appear to be in good health (read: thin people) are actually unhealthy, they are just blessed with a better metabolism so the weight does not pile up.
Many thin people have heart problems. Cancers strike 1 in 4 people with no regard for size. I know ridiculously skinny people with high blood pressure, knee problems, joint disease, back issues...you name it, they have it, and their "thin-ness" didn't prevent them from getting it.
By the same token, look at the average football player - many of them are overweight, many would fall into the obese category, but their level of physical fitness far surpasses many average people.
Good health is not a simple matter of who is thin and who is fat. It is a very complex combination of genetics and life style choices. Someone who remains thin because of a genetically naturally high metabalism can still have clogged arteries from potato chips. A thin person who smokes 2 packs of cigarettes per day is likely to be a bigger drain on healthcare than an overweight person with no other discernable risk factors.
People should focus on education when it comes to health care and realize that appearances don't always tell the full story.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:19:00 PM
Happy April Fool's Day! The biggest problem we face today is that the government is too involved in every aspect of our lives, especially health care. Anyone who says the government should pay for this or that must understand that the government's money comes from borrowing and incurring debt or taxing its citizens. There is no free lunch. Most people are disconnected from health care expenditures because they do not shell out cash from their own wallets. Why worry about the costs of your actions when you do not take cash out of your pocket to pay for it?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:28:00 PM
If the government will give me a big, FAT, stimulus package, I'll try harder to stick with my diet and exercise!!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:28:00 PM
This is not attacking the root of the problem. It is time for this country to realize the the problem is not in fat people but in companies that keep bombarding our children with sweet-junk food. Our country is fool of fat pre-diabetic people that is ingesting low price -high-carbohydrate food. Think. It is not the fat. It is the sugar... and the industries dedicated to this.
People should hear the truth about fats and sugar and get educated, not taxed.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:29:00 PM
This is nuts. Yes, obesity is a problem. I am one of them. I also work a full time job and pay for my health care and, as my doctor says, am very healthy on paper. My only health issue is that I am overweight. My blood pressure is normal, so is my triglycerides, good and bad cholesterol are where they are supposed to be, my heart is healthy, my blood sugar is normal and my pap and breast exams are clean so this is ludicrous. I know normal weight people who should be dead due to diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, etc. So a visual physical of a person is asinine. Our government needs to stop trying to tax us all to death and start treating us like other countries treat their citizens. Canada, England and France have excellent health care. The U.S. is notorious for throwing pills at people for every little ailment. And who said that high health costs are because of obesity? Take a look around. There are thousands who go from quitting high school, having a kid or two and living off the system. They never contribute yet get free health care. Who do you think is paying for that? The same people who are paying for illegal aliens who come here and have anchor babies and are handed food stamps, public housing, free health care, and free educations, all on us! So think about it. Maybe we should be directing this all at the free loaders, not the hard working majority, regardless of their weight. Also, if the general public thinks obesity is such a problem, maybe the government could make it easier for us to lose weight. Once we're taxed to death, the only food one can afford is pasta and maybe some day old bread. Having a discounted fee to attend a weight loss program subsidized by the government may be an incentive.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:30:00 PM
April Fool's or not why would anyone in this day and age with all of the nut cases running around and especially some that read these things and believe what they read put these sort of jokes anywhere for them to read. The first thing that will happen a real fool will be on Fox stating that The President is pushing this garbage and there are to many that would take this to heart and blame him. All media outlets ought to watch what they consider to be funny.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:34:00 PM
That made me crazy. I actually believed it and I was all set to write to my senator.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:38:00 PM
Only if stupidity is, too! We'd have the deficit paid off if a stupidity tax existed! LOL! Happy April Fool's Day!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:43:00 PM
NEWS FLASH PEOPLE...Health Care in the U.S. is still privatized, meaning we (the individual) pay for our own actions. In instances where someone is recieving federal health care assistance, I can understand there being a requirement to lose the weight. Perhaps they would consider the option to lose weight or lose medical coverage. I am a fit individual who is saddened by the obesity epidemic, but it starts with the individual, not the government fining people for their PERSONAL CHOICES. With that said, specifically regarding the fattening food tax, I take care of my body and I don't want to pay more for a chocolate bare because other people can't control themselves...talk about unfair! Also...how would you be able to give people a fair amount of time to lose the weight without fining them multiple times? Basically, the government is trying to ostracize (because that's what will happen) people with a problem that is much deeper than just eating...Americans are addicted to food for more reasons than a lack of Self Control. I wonder if the administration will fine all of the minority women who cannot afford to eat organic food and are living on the crappy, unhealthy cheese blocks and high carb diets that food stamps allow? The whole concept is RIDICULOUS!!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:51:00 PM
When it comes to the obesity tax I believe that this can be a really successful program. Not only will this more than likely help the government’s deficit, it is also encouraging people to make an effort and take charge on their health and wellness: this is a complete win-win plan. It’s just too easy to zip through McDonalds drive through or sit with a bag of chips on the sofa, thus obesity is in many cases a result of laziness. If a fire, like an obesity tax, is set under society, as mentioned, the cost of spent healthcare dollars for the obese will drop dramatically, people will become healthy, and in many cases family relationships will probably improve just due to the fact that the family sits down for a meal together that is not in a fast food restaurant, the car, or in front of the tube. It’s a great idea. Mention it to our Canadian Government too, please…
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:53:00 PM
Good April Fools Joke! I knew it early on that it was for April 1st fun and the title for the group gave it away too...the first letters of each word spelling out F.O.O.L.
Good job!
It's amazing how many people don't have a sense of humor and or don't read the entire thing and take you seriously! haha
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:55:00 PM
This article had me so upset. I was looking for my congressman's phone number. Then I read the comments and I am almost in tears. It seems that "fat" is the last allowed predjudice. The hateful remarks and ignorance shown by so many persons posting to this April Fools Joke. Overweight people are not the reason healthcare goes up. I have been overweight all of my life and I am never sick. I have no major medical problems. I know lots of skinny persons that go doctor hopping, get nerve pills, pain pills, whatever pills. I guess since they don't crowd your seat on the bus it's okay that they run up high medical bills to feel good about themselves with medicine. Sometimes I don't fit in a tiny chair comfortably but at least I don't have to take a pill to know when I'm happy or not.
If healthcare really wanted to help persons overwieght with their weight problems, then they would help pay for weightloss surgeries, diets, excercise, and education.
Health care is a joke in this country anyways. You pay all of this money in to a system that is supposed to help you when you are in need, but they charge you more if you use their services.
To have a FAT tax, you also need a Smoking Tax, a Drinking Tax, a Pain Bill Abuser Tax....let's just tax everyone. Mondays are pay a fine for red shirt days....Tuesdays arrested if you have red hair day....I mean let's just really see how ugly we can get with each other.
I'm glad I read this joke. I see that I should be more involved in the world. This is the first time I have ever left a comment to anything online.
My heart goes with all the persons commenting here on their struggle with weight. There's not a fat person alive that hasn't tried everything to lose weight.
The size of your belly doesn't measure the size of your ability.
Comment by Little said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:59:00 PM
Joke or no joke. It would not be surprising if the this was a serious ordeal.
ANY of you who believe it would be a good idea for the gov't to infringe upon ANY MORE of our rights- you all deserve to be slaves for the rest of your lives (you already are). Where does half of your paycheck go? Oh, how nice they let you keep the other half.
WAKE UP AMERICA.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 2:59:00 PM
I am all for it. I do not wish to offend anyone because of their weight, however, I should not be responsible for picking up the tab either. While we are at it, cigarette smoking is a huge burden to those of us who do not smoke in regards to health care. When smoked around a child, they surely should be fined for endangering the welfare of a minor. If I were to hand my child the chemicals in a cigarette and have them ingest said chemicals I would be locked up forever. Smoking around them does the same thing?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:03:00 PM
This article had me so upset. I was looking for my congressman's phone number. Then I read the comments and I am almost in tears. It seems that "fat" is the last allowed predjudice. The hateful remarks and ignorance shown by so many persons posting to this April Fools Joke. Overweight people are not the reason healthcare goes up. I have been overweight all of my life and I am never sick. I have no major medical problems. I know lots of skinny persons that go doctor hopping, get nerve pills, pain pills, whatever pills. I guess since they don't crowd your seat on the bus it's okay that they run up high medical bills to feel good about themselves with medicine. Sometimes I don't fit in a tiny chair comfortably but at least I don't have to take a pill to know when I'm happy or not.
If healthcare really wanted to help persons overwieght with their weight problems, then they would help pay for weightloss surgeries, diets, excercise, and education.
Health care is a joke in this country anyways. You pay all of this money in to a system that is supposed to help you when you are in need, but they charge you more if you use their services.
To have a FAT tax, you also need a Smoking Tax, a Drinking Tax, a Pain Bill Abuser Tax....let's just tax everyone. Mondays are pay a fine for red shirt days....Tuesdays arrested if you have red hair day....I mean let's just really see how ugly we can get with each other.
I'm glad I read this joke. I see that I should be more involved in the world. This is the first time I have ever left a comment to anything online.
My heart goes with all the persons commenting here on their struggle with weight. There's not a fat person alive that hasn't tried everything to lose weight.
The size of your belly doesn't measure the size of your ability.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:04:00 PM
I myself am overweight, and can understand the need for most of us to shape up. However, the only people that should be affected by this law are the ones that are on State/Federal Medical Coverage. Only then would/should the government be allowed to impose anything on someone because of their weight. I believe the right should also go to health insurers. If they are paying for your medical bills, they should be able to implement some standards.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:05:00 PM
but they won't do anything to stop companies from putting high glycemic stuff into our food, like High Fructose Corn Syrup, which is proven to dramatically increase waiste size and Insulin Resistance, why don't they start with things like that!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:05:00 PM
Glad to hear this is just a joke. I was getting mad reading this. I'm overweight. I've tried calling my insurance company to see if I could go to a dietician to help me lose weight. They told me that I could only if I was a diabetic. I was mad. I told them so you'd rather wait until people get diabetes & other health problems rather than help prevent this from happening. Prevention would save them money in the long run. I told them that didn't make sense. She said that was the policy. My health insurance cost me almost half what I pay for my house payment. Maybe if health care was more affordable I could afford to join a gym or some program to get help & support.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:08:00 PM
This is not funny!!!! Why? Because this administration have shown themselves capable of proposing such a law. And as far as the added cost of health care, I pay extra because I am not the insurance companies idea of ideal weight, so I'm paying for my decisions, not the healthy weight people. How much extra do we all pay because of Anorexia? We need to go back to accepting people for who they are instead of who we think they should be.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:18:00 PM
Don't be too sure that George Orwell's 1984 is not that far-fetched. The government has already made cigarette smoking against the law in public and is now pursuing laws against smoking in your own car if a child is present. Our rights as citizens and parents are slowly, but surely, being eroded. People have a right to make their own choices regarding their own health. Let's make "not flossing" a criminal act as it contributes to heart disease. Pretty hard to monitor, though.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:19:00 PM
Great joke, but think if it were true. Over population people.. the obese are doing us all a favor. They will die sooner and wont suck up our social security. Population control just like smoking...think about it.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:20:00 PM
I get the joke, but too close for comfort. I'm thinking the fast food joints that RUN the USA should be fined everytime they serve their shite that passes for food to anyone more than 10 lbs overweight, perhaps schools that do not serve healthy food to children under 12 should be fined, also the food companies that advertise during children's programming and on and on and on. Obesity is a world issue as long as healthy food is hard to get. And believe me, unless you live on a farm it is hard to get. Everything we eat is processed and therein lies the corruption. Stop blaming the obese! It's ridiculous! Just because you were born with a fast metabolism doesn't make you a better person or more healthy.
I think the government would have to dig deeper for other stuff like underweight people with health issues from not eating properly.
It's a huge issue and the obesity is a SYMPTOM.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:20:00 PM
Ha ha. Although it's not so far out. As a diabetic in Canada, I have to pay for a driver's medical and renew my licence every year, even though I am fit, healthy, have low cholesterol, low blood pressure and have never passed out, unlike many unhealthy, overweight people.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:23:00 PM
This in no was was cute or funny shame on you diet & Fitness!!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:33:00 PM
There are plenty of "over" weight people that have no health problems. Good gawd noboma is really going to far with his dick tater ship..he hehe
who is going to determine who is fat and who isn't. What are the rules? Or will they keep changing like everything else this administration has done. Make up the rules as they go?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:33:00 PM
Oh,my gosh! I almost took this seriously. Thank goodness I saw the comments about the "April Fool" joke.
I have heard so much about this that I thought it was for real. So many of us eat moderately and still struggle with keeping weight under control that it would be absolutely horrific to propose such legislation. I do believe that healthy options should be available in all school cafeterias and public restaurants. I am 62 years old and have struggled with obesity all of my grown-up years. I managed to lose 15 pounds last summer into fall and have maintained the loss, but I am still quite overweight. I will never be thin, but I do try to maintain healthy eating habits. I am still working on increasing my activity level.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:34:00 PM
This is RIDICULOUS!!! What's next? Are they going to put all the fat felons in jail so noone has to look at them? Dear God! Maybe they'd like to monitor our bowel habits too, to make sure those are healthy? We're heading for a dictatorship folks.....and fast.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:37:00 PM
This whole thing is a waist of time., Is this the way our president spends his time? If so then i feel sorry our country is already hurting, is he trying to bury us.. Should we be concentrating on more important things..Im ashamed and dissappointed that we are headed in the direction this country is in
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:38:00 PM
Number one let's start with TV advertising food. It always looks so good. It's socially exceptable and to cook feed someone is to love them. I know I married into a family that is like that. Also social unexceptance creates depression and more eating. And with the economic crisis where is the sorrow drownded? Booze or food or both. Is there a war on excessive or improper eating? Do we have educational programs from the beginning on through life. Dieters realize the price of dieting. Mac and Cheese is $0.47 a box but the good fruits and veggies are $1.00 on up per pound. I know maybe we should charge this exorbinate prices for the gym! Maybe that person who can't afford the good food should just get motivated. And pigs fly after a 10 hour day at work. Oh we didn't mention that it's low pay or only the first of two jobs to make ends meet! I don't see any restraunts popping up or advertising for healthy foods and correct proportions. People scream when they don't think they are getting what they pay for.
So who's next? Who do we traget to either get more money for the government and pay for the health care?
By the way I'm lucky. My employer provides a gym for there employees. They also have continuous education,incentives and a cafeteria that only sells healthy and organic foods. My children on the other hand struggle at the bottom just getting by.
You know another tax sounds like a good idea to them.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:40:00 PM
I think that this is a total joke. I can't believe that the government wants to put a tax on people that are overweight. Like other people here have said "they'd have to tax over half of the U.S." I'm really hoping that this is an April Fools Joke, but with the world becomming what it is, who knows.
Comment by Kelly said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:40:00 PM
It might be a joke, but let's face it. Fat or not. How many other things will our government force upon us until they are in control of the amount of oxygen we're allotted to breathe everyday. Give me a break. Try fixing the healthcare system first. If you are overweight, that's your problem.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 3:43:00 PM
I am more than 20% over my ideal weight. However, I do not have any of the risk factors usually related to those in that bracket (ie, I don't have high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, etc.) I think it is ludicrous to tax people for being overweight, because geneology sometimes dictates tendency to carry extra weight. I have some overweight people in my geneology who lived to be ripe old ages (90s), and never really had obesity related issues. Do I want to lose weight? Sure, but the process is slow, and backslides do happen. However, I don't eat donuts every day, I avoid HFCS when I can, I limit sugar, eat fiber, and I do exercise. The fact that I do all that and am still overweight I do not think should be a crime! I think the government is definitely trying to go too far!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:00:00 PM
As a 63 year old healthy, but obese woman, I think this joke is an omen of what may happen--the government is intruding in every aspect of our lives. Telling people what they can eat and weigh is just one more case of destroying individuality and individual rights in this country. What happened to democracy and our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?
Comment by celeste said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:01:00 PM
I was absolutely gob smacked and saw myself paying a fine or sorting my weight out....then I got to the end. Ha ha..good one, that really got me thinking! If there were fines to be paid, would I even be this overweight???? Probably not. Maybe they should do it and then we'd either be thinner or poorer.
For those who got into a tizz don't be so serious it won't add one day to your life expectancy or take off one kilo of your weight.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:11:00 PM
Goverment has allot "Fat Cows" will they get SPECIAL PRIVILAGES?? HUMMM! They should be fixing the economy, then worrying about if people are fat, some people eat, because they are depressed, let me tell you I losed 47 pounds still have 40 more to go. But looking at was going on in the world I'm depressed. The "Fat Cows" in Corporate and Goverment make hundreds of thousands of dollars, they can afford fancy gyms, traniners, good qualily food the best. While the poor or badly making it, have to worry about if there food is tainted from other states and aboard. When gas prices went up so did the food and everything else, but when it went down to $1.50 a gal HUMMM? the prices never went down, and Exxon announce, and boosted, it had made a 93 billion in profits, I'm sure there all eating well. So before you start cleaning other people's house take care of your own first.
Comment by Jennifer said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:14:00 PM
I have to applaud you on this one. You had me going for a minute there! LOL!
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:39:00 PM
i agree that there is a weight problem but there are also other problems just as serious in our country. why do slumlords, druglords, rapists, crooked government and state officials get away with things. in order for the obese or overweight to lose the illness or problem they have, as others have stated-we need as a country under God, to help them through education, positive reinforcement. It is a known fact that you get deeper and further results through positive reinforcement than insults, penalties, and abusive controlling ways. that is what the government is suggesting. acheiving healthcare is hard. i am currently trying to find some way to be able to see a physician regularly but i cannot afford healthcare, as most can't. even state insurance costs money. it is like any other helath and car insurance there is a deuctible/premium that must be met before they cover anything. so if these people are penalized for there weight, which some cant control due to medical reasons, and cant afford the help how can they pay the fines. are we now to put people in prison for their weight. what are we teaching our kids and our future. that you will go to jail if you eat a cookie.. if u are overweight. how will they feel being stopped/pulled over by the police for this. there will be more suicides and murder, and hate crimes than ever. Has the U.S. become a communist country? Have we become like Hitler and others who torture and kill those who are different? How many more people will die form eating disorders because of this? How many more homeless?
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:39:00 PM
I think it is the worst thing you could do to people who are obese. they are already being punished by the stigmu that they have to put up with by people. who are stare and made fun of by people. Also by people who hollow rude comments as your walking down the street. Also obese would be afraid to get help that they need to lose weight when they are ready. Obese people already feel bad about themselves and don't make alot of money the way it is because people discriminate against them in the workplace. Some people have a harder time keeping there weight down because of a illness or geneticst then other people.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 4:41:00 PM
Have anyone heard of the Food and Drug Adminstration? The key words are Food and Drug!!! Producers of food products and government are allowing non-organic material to enter our foods, much makes them additive and unhealthy. Foods that are considered low fat or health are just as bad as that regular high calorie food. The "Fat Tax" is a joke, whats the most we are to weight? Our heights, body builds, origin, race, and DNA governs our body mass. Yes some do go overboard, but taxing would seem like singling out a group of people, just like race or sex. Its wrong, my body is not like anyone else's and shouldn't be compared to a chart. That's what makes everyone different!
Great April Fool's Joke, but it may come to country near you!
Comment by msnelson2006 said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:00:00 PM
Is this for real? Who in their right mind would pass a tax like this? There are people who have health issues that prevent them from losing weight. So, let me get this straight you can lose your license if you do not lose weight. Hell with that I am a "free American" and I will be damned if they take away my right to be fat or not. In a way I understand about the epidemic of obesity and the rise in rates. If you tax people on weight you are taking away their freedom to live as they want. What do you do about people who cannot lose weight? Are they going to start paying for geriatric surgery.
I did not even read the whole article and AI was aggravated. They cannot control everything we do. This whole thing is BS...
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:07:00 PM
Good joke! I fell for it up till the end. I thought it was some right-wing concoction to upset the President. As I was reading, I came to the conclusion that obesity isn't the crime, it is the access to junk food. How about we make it a felony for food producers to load our food with thousands of dangerous, unnecessary calories, sodium, transfats and sugars? If consumers don't have access to these life-threatening "foods", we will be much better off.
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:10:00 PM
DON'T THEY REALIZE THAT MEDICATION PEOPLE HAVE TO TAKE CAUSE OBESITY..
DIABETES MEDS AND ANTIDEPRESSANTS BOTH CAUSE PEOPLE TO BE OVERWEIGHT..NO ONE WANTS TO BE OVERWEIGHT BUT THE GOVERNMENT IS GOING TO FAR...THIS IS WORSE THAN BEING IN A COMMUNIST COUNTRY...
Comment by said... - Wednesday, April 01, 2009 5:12:00 PM
somehow i think this tax thing is a good thg. some people might argue that it infringes on the right to privacy but i believe that all the obese people who need motivation to lose weight could encouraged albeit forcefully by this. i don't think it's irrational since it's not like there's a prescribed size. i also agree that people should take responsibility for their actions, there's nothing wrong with doughnuts but criously think about if you had to keep taking a child to the hospital simply cos he doesnt know wen to stop eating and you have another child suffering from leukemia or something. i'm not saying it's not a serious disease but it's something that can be avoided with a little maturity. oh and that positive reinforcement thing it doesn't work.i can do without your praise but i can't stand your criticism. i think the penalty system is beter than the reward system. so although i think it's a lot interfering i also feel it's about tym someone did somethg about it.
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