Popcorn. Photo: wiki commons.

Carmel Shama-Hacohen, a member of Israel’s Knesset (parliament) is pushing a piece of legislation known as the “popcorn bill” that would allow people to bring their own food and drink into movie theaters.

The Israeli lawmaker says he is “glad that after a long struggle and despite the theater’s objections, the committee approved my bill to defend the captive costumers in movie theaters, sport events, hospitals, etc.”

The “popcorn bill” is designed to allow consumers an escape from price gauging at venues where the only option is to buy food and drink on the premises.  It will now be presented for Knesset vote.

Cinemas operating in Israel have said that if the bill is passed, it would spell the end of their ability to operate inside the Jewish state.