Shapleigh Proposes Bill Banning Trans Fats In Restaurants

By ABC-7’s Ken Molestina

People are sounding off on a proposed statewide ban of trans fats at restaurants in Texas.

El Paso State Senator Eliot Shapleigh is the proponent of this ban, officially called the “Trans Fat Ban”.

However, not everyone is on board with this proposal.

Mike Peter’s, owner of Leo’s Mexican Restaurant, says lard isn’t just the primary ingredient for the beans; it’s also responsible for that special taste.

Patrons at the restaurant say beans just won’t taste the same if the ban becomes law.

The “Trans Fat Ban” would force restaurants to switch from trans fats, often associated with diabetes and obesity, to oils that are plant- and vegetable-based.

One restaurant patron opposed to the idea says it’s a personal choice, adding no one has the right to govern your life.

The L & J caf in Central El Paso has already switched to canola oil. Shapleigh and his supporters gathered there to address the issue, saying the proposal is to help people become more health-conscious.

The state senator says he expects to present his proposal in Austin within ten days.

But some say the proposed switch would buck tradition when it comes to Borderland eats.