The proposal from New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg to ban oversized sugary drinks was submitted to the city's board of health on Tuesday, June 12. The ban applies to drinks over 16 ounces which contain more than 25 calories per 8 ounces. It does not apply to diet soda or any calorie-free drink.
New Yorkers are split on the ban, according to the NY1-Marist poll - 53% said the ban was a bad idea while 42% said it was a good idea. Those polled were similarly split on the effectiveness of the ban in helping people lose weight.
"We didn't propose it because we thought it would be popular, but it should come as no surprise that the numbers are so close since New Yorkers always have had an openness to bold ideas when taking on intractable problems," Bloomberg said in a statement.
The board of health will hold a series of public hearings during a 90-day comment period in which the topic will be debated.
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