Bloomberg Calls On State To Implement Sugary Drink Ban
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Mayor Michael Bloomberg has urged New York State to adopt his ban on large sugary drinks.
The city has jurisdiction over restaurants, movie theaters, fast food restaurants and street carts, but not supermarkets or convenience stores that do not serve prepared foods.
"The state should do exactly the same thing in stores," Bloomberg told reporters including WCBS 880's Rich Lamb.
Bloomberg Calls On State To Implement Sugary Drink Ban
The mayor reiterated that the goal is to cut down on negative health effects in kids amid a national obesity epidemic.
New York City's ban on sugary drinks set to take effect on March 12 bars the sale of beverages larger than 16 ounces.
The ban does not apply to diet soda, other calorie-free drinks or anything that has at least 50 percent milk or milk substitute.
A lawsuit has been filed against the proposal, with opponents arguing that the ban is an unfair burden on businesses. They say they shouldn't have to comply until the lawsuit over the matter is resolved.
Last month, city officials announced that soda sellers would get a three-month grace period from fines for violating the upcoming crackdown.
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