American Diabetes Association•May 7, 2026
The American Diabetes Association Urges California Lawmakers to Restore Access to Obesity Medications and Improve Health Through Sugary Beverage Labeling mcarmody Thu, 05/07/2026 - 16:18 Advocacy News The American Diabetes Association Urges California Lawmakers to Restore Access to Obesity Medications and Improve Health Through Sugary Beverage Labeling SACRAMENTO, Calif. May 7, 2026 Today, Diabetes Advocates from the American Diabetes Association ® (ADA) and other community partners are in Sacramento urging California lawmakers to take decisive action that can improve the health of millions of Californians. Time and date : Thursday, May 7 from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Location: The Citizen Hotel, Quorum Room (second floor), 926 J St., Sacramento, CA 9581 “The ADA and its advocates are calling on California lawmakers to take action to address the obesity and diabetes crises by both expanding access to life-changing treatment and supporting prevention efforts,” said Christine Fallabel, MPH, the ADA’s interim vice president of state government affairs. California continues to confront rising rates of obesity and diabetes. Nearly 29% of California adults are living with obesity, with rates projected to rise significantly in the coming decades. The impact on Californian’s health is significant. Obesity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and over 200 other health problems. The economic impact of obesity is substantial, with obesity costing the state an estimated $89.5 billion annually. To combat this problem and help Californians living with obesity, the ADA and other groups are together urging state legislators to reinstate Medi-Cal coverage for GLP-1-based obesity medications in the state budget, ensuring access to evidence-based treatment for those who need it most. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for obesity management can be used effectively and safely to help manage blood glucose (blood sugar) levels in people living with type 2 diabetes and support weight management for individuals living with obesity. These medications also improve heart and kidney health and reduce insulin resistance. Additionally, the ADA is supporting prevention efforts through Senate Bill 869 , authored by Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, MD. This legislation would require chain restaurants with more than 20 locations to display a clear added sugar icon and accompanying text next to standard menu beverage items that contain more than 50% of the recommended daily added sugar intake, defined as 25 grams or more per serving. Added sugar contributes to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. By providing simple, visible labeling, SB 869 aims to support healthier decision-making without limiting consumer choice. To schedule interviews, please contact press@diabetes.org ### About the American Diabetes Association The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are over 155 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook ( American Diabetes Association ), Spanish Facebook ( Asociación Americana de la Diabetes ), LinkedIn ( American Diabetes Association ), and Instagram ( @AmDiabetesAssn ). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X ( @AmDiabetesAssn ). Download press materials Person Name Mimi Carmody Email press@diabetes.org Phone (703) 253-4957
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