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Bill would trim trans fat on menu

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California restaurateurs could no longer legally cook with trans fat under a proposal sent to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Wednesday by the state Senate. The measure, AB 97 by Assemblyman Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia), would impose fines of up to $1,000 for using margarine, shortening or oil containing artificial trans fat. The substance has a long shelf life but has been linked to heart disease.

Public health groups, including the American Heart Assn., support the legislation.

The California Restaurant Assn. argues that a ban would do little to improve health, because people eat most meals at home.

-- Nancy Vogel

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