Legislatures across the country have recently tried to pass bills requiring various types of restaurants to post the calorie counts on their menu. New York was one of the first cities to pass such regulations, though it is limited to restaurants with more than 15 locations nationwide. After the restaurants failed in repealing the ordinance, Los Angeles and Nashville followed.

The new bill of course brings up certain important questions. First of all, will posting the calories actually reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods, and secondly, does the government have a right to control citizen’s personal habits?

Jamie Pope, a lecturer in the School of Nursing, claimed the calorie lists would only affect those who are already health-conscious, citing that most people base their decisions of taste and convenience and not just nutrition content. Furthermore, there is some confusion to what constitutes a healthy meal both calorie and nutrition content-wise.

More importantly, however, does Nashville Metro really have the right (or need) to pass just such legislation? It is true large fast food chains are notorious for deceptive marketing. For example, McDonald’s salads — when combined with the dressing — become one of the most heavily caloric items on the menu. While some consumers were not aware, it is safe to say most diners are aware of the health hazards presented by such chains.

The government should play a role in protecting citizens from bad business practices, but personal responsibility is equally important. Nashville Metro attempts to protect people from themselves, justifying their actions by citing public health concerns. It is true obesity is a rising problem, and heart disease and diabetes are developing into major issues facing the American public, but in the end, people should be relied on to make correct decisions for themselves.