9-01-04 - UNDATED (AP) Texas is taking aim at public schools in an attempt to combat childhood obesity. A study earlier this year found that almost one-fourth of Texas fourth-graders and nearly one-fifth of eighth graders were overweight.
Government figures show that nationwide, about 15 percent of children and adolescents are overweight.
With Texas children among the fattest, state Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs has taken aim at the place where many kids eat 60 percent of their daily food.
Texas adopted new guidelines that took effect August first. In elementary schools, there can be no candy until after classes.
However, under pressure from parents, the Agriculture Department this week backed down on one restriction: Cakes and cupcakes will be allowed for student birthday parties after all.