Trumball News

Majority Whip Nick Santucci has introduced a resolution in Columbus calling for the U.S. Congress to investigate agencies responsible for regulating American food sources. The resolution cites several concerning health trends, such as rising obesity rates, increasing cancer cases, and the growing number of children diagnosed with autism.

According to data referenced in the resolution, obesity affects at least 20% of adults in each U.S. state, with Ohio being one of 23 states where more than 35% of adults are obese. "Obesity rates have spiked," notes the resolution, pointing out that before 2013 no state had an adult obesity prevalence above 35%. In addition, more than one-third of young adults were reportedly too heavy to serve in the military by 2023.

The document also highlights alarming cancer statistics from recent years: "In 2021, there were 1,777,566 new cancer cases reported in the United States," leading to "608,366 cancer-related deaths in 2022." Furthermore, it draws attention to CDC estimates indicating that approximately "1 in 36 children" is identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the U.S.

Santucci emphasized the responsibility of state representatives to protect public health. “As state representatives," he stated, "we have a duty to our constituents to ensure their health is not jeopardized by allowing the poisoning of our food to continue.” He urged Congress to investigate regulatory oversight by agencies like the FDA: “I urge Congress to thoroughly investigate the FDA's oversight of our food sources."

The resolution points out concerns about toxins and chemicals present in American food products as possible contributors to these adverse health trends. It calls on Congress to examine not only the FDA but also other relevant agencies like the Department of Health.