Industry sues over NYC crackdown on sugary drinks

(AP) Industry sues over NYC crackdown on sugary drinks
NEW YORK
Soft drink makers, restaurateurs and other businesses are suing to block New York City’s move to end the sale of super-sized, sugary drinks in many eateries.

The American Beverage Association and others sued the city Friday.

A City Hall spokesman says the lawsuit is baseless and health officials had authority for the regulation.

The city Board of Health approved the unprecedented regulation last month. It would stop restaurants, cafeterias and concession stands from selling soda and other high-calorie drinks in containers larger than 16 ounces.

The rule is to take effect in March.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg calls it a reasonable way to fight obesity.

The lawsuit says the unelected health board shouldn’t dictate soft drink sizes. The suit also says the rule “burdens consumers and unfairly harms small businesses.”