NEW YORK, NY December 05, 2006 —The biggest public health initiative since the city banned smoking in bars will get a vote today. The trans fat ban is said to be for consumer's own good, but some restaurants – including major fast-food chains – think the law sets a dangerous precedent of too much government interference. WNYC’s Fred Mogul has more.

Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Frieden has said today’s revised proposal would give restaurants more time to phase out trans-fats than the original version. The mayorally-appointed Health Board can set rules without City Council approval, but the Council also plans to make it a law, without significant change.

A spokesperson for Council Member Peter Vallone says as a city ordinance passed by the Council, the ban would have greater weight, if the city is sued. Vallone says he’s been lobbied by McDonald’s and Burger King but still supports the ban. Meanwhile, other fast food giants have pledged to drop transfats voluntarily, including Wendy’s, Arby’s and KFC. For WNYC, I’m Fred Mogul.