By Bryan McGonigle
Remember those BMI notification letters -- nicknamed the "fat letters" -- that caused so much drama earlier this year? Well, Beacon Hill just threw them in the garbage.
The Public Health Council voted to scrap the notification letters Wednesday, the Boston Globe reports.
The BMI of younger kids -- in grades 1, 4, 7 and 10 will still be monitored to track childhood obesity rates, but they will not receive BMI notification letters.
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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 Rep. Jim 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.
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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. This new development means the school won't be sending those letters out at all.Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
