Sugary Drink Ban Critics Comb City Beaches For Support
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Critics of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's plan to ban the sale of large, sugary drinks are paying a visit to the city's beaches this weekend.
Members of "New Yorkers for Beverage Choices" are collecting signatures for a petition opposing the ban.
They're talking with beachgoers in Coney Island and the Rockaways about the measure which would ban restaurants, movie theaters, sports arenas and other city-regulated eateries from selling sugary beverages in containers larger than 16 ounces.
Critics say that takes away a person's right to choose, and will hurt some businesses.
"It's kind of put a damper on businesses where they can't buy anything over 16 ounces with sugar in them. Yeah well it's healthy but it also hurts the economy, regular businessman, the people - our pocket when we're more thirsty," said James Linekin of "New Yorkers for Beverage Choices".
The city says the beverage ban will not eliminate choice, but cut down on portion sizes and encourage people to pick healthier options.
A public hearing on the matter is set for later this month.