'Fat Letters' Hearing in a Few Weeks

After spending months in committee, State Rep. Jim Lyons' legislation against BMI notifications will finally be heard next month.

The Joint Committee on Public Health is scheduled to hold a public hearing on Sept. 10 at the State House, "Sports Injuries, Concussions, and School Health."

There will be many related bills discussed, including H2024, "An Act relative to protecting the privacy of children," which would prevent schools from collecting student BMI data.

Earlier this year, North Andover Selectman Tracy Watson raised concerns about the notifications -- since dubbed the "fat letters" -- after her son Cameron received a letter saying he was obese. Cameron is an athlete who plays football, wrestles and excels in martial arts.

Watson discussed the issue with Lyons, who then filed legislation to stop the the notifications, which have caused outrage among parents who say the program violates privacy, causes bullying and is ineffective since pediatricians already discuss weight issues with parents.

The topic gained national attention, culminating with a mention on Saturday Night Live.

Recently, Gov. Patrick's administration proposed a new rule that would lift requirements of schools to notify parents of their children's BMI.