Updated 02/25/2013 05:50 PM
Bloomberg: "State Should Do Exactly The Same Thing" As City With Soda Ban
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With the city's sugary drink regulations set to go into effect in two weeks, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said it wouldn't be a bad idea if the law was expanded to more businesses.
The restrictions, which ban sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces, apply to restaurants and other facilities that receive a letter grade from the city Health Department.
But when asked about the regulations Monday, Bloomberg said it would benefit all New Yorkers if the ban was expanded by state officials to include grocery stores and bodegas.
"We're not keeping you from reaching for the next one, but you're more likely to. If you have a 32 ounce in front of you, you are much more likely to drink the whole thing than to have a 16 ounce and get another," Bloomberg said. "But the state should do exactly the same thing in stores, I couldn't agree more."
A spokesman said Bloomberg believes the policy will save lives, but that he is not taking a position on what state officials should do.
The city's regulations go into effect March 12.