NYC Big Soda Law Goes Won’t Take Effect Tuesday

Tuesday was supposed to be the day: New York City was ready to implement its restrictions on the sale of large sugar-sweetened drinks. But a State Supreme Court justice invalidated the law Monday afternoon, several hours before it was to go into effect.

The judge ruled the law was "arbitrary and capricious."

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has said he viewed the law as "portion control." People would not have been permitted to buy sodas and other sugary beverages in containers large than 16 ounces at some retailers.

Bloomberg has said the state should adopt similar regulations to cover businesses regulated by Albany.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo says "one or two of her colleagues" might propose such a statewide measure but she doubts big soda regulations will be adopted by the Legislature.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Lupardo said she believes "it's highly unlikely" state lawmakers would seriously consider such legislation.

The Endwell Democrat said she would rather educate people about calories so they could make better-informed nutritional choices on their own.