NJ A4225

Requires New Jersey restaurants to include only healthy default beverages with children's meals, defined as water (plain, sparkling, or flavored without sweeteners), low-fat milk or non-dairy alternatives (130 calories or less), or 100% fruit juice (8 oz max)

Parents may still request alternative beverages; the bill only restricts what restaurants automatically pair with children's meals

Cites childhood obesity statistics showing 22.7% of New Jersey adolescents and 32.5% of children ages 2-4 in WIC are overweight or obese

Notes sugary drinks are the largest source of daily calories for American children ages 2-18, with each extra serving increasing obesity risk by 60%

Takes effect six months after enactment, with the Commissioner of Health responsible for enforcement regulations