We often write about how government has a tendency to become so intrusive, it becomes more of a nanny enforcing rules than a means of self-government.

As bad as things can get on this side of the Atlantic, they still pale in comparison to the nanny states of Europe. Consider what the French government is requiring car makers to say in their ads:

Under a new regulation slated to take effect in March, French automakers will be required to include messages on car advertisements that encourage viewers to seek more environmentally friendly travel alternatives.

Automakers will be able to choose between three messages, according to the rule published in France’s official journal: “Consider carpooling,” “For short trips, opt for walking or cycling” or “Use public transportation for everyday trips.” At the end of the message, advertisers must affix the hashtag “#SeDéplacerMoinsPolluer” — or #MovePolluteLess.

The requirement is to apply to ads distributed on radio, television, in theaters, on the Internet and on big screens as well as to print ads. If advertisers fail to include the message, they can be fined up to about $56,000.

It’s along the lines of the U.S. requirements that tobacco products contain warnings about cancer and other diseases.  But the French, bless them, are real pros at this sort of thing:

Similar measures are already in place in France for food advertisements, which instruct French consumers to cut back on junk food and eat more fruits and vegetables.

Shades of Michelle Obama hectoring kids to eat their vegetables.

Come to think of it, America’s nanny statists stack up pretty well against their European cousins. And that’s a shame.