Politics & Government

Do You Think Energy Drinks are too Dangerous for Kids?

New legislation would prevent minors from purchasing energy drinks at County parks.

A new proposed law – approved by Suffolk legislators this past week – would prohibit the sale of energy drinks at county-run parks and beaches to those under the age of 18. It also limits direct marketing efforts of these products to minors.

Read about the new legislation here.

"Far too many people are unaware of the effects excessive caffeine consumption can have on the body," said Legis. William Spencer, D-Centerport, who sponsored the bill.

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Readers respond

Paul Kersey wrote on Patch that Suffolk Legislators were "Bloomberg wannabees," referencing the New York City Mayor's attempts at banning large sized sodas and plastic-foam containers.

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"Is there anything these busybody nannies don't think is worthy of them legislating?" Kersey asked. "I am not defending Redbull, etc. - what I am defending is our ability to make choices."

Another commentor named Chris K said that even though he didn't understand the appeal of energy drinks to minors, elected officials should find better things to do with their time.

"Can't imagine why a kid needs an energy drink but I also can't imagine why with a record 250 million dollar budget deficit, residents still without shelter from a hurricane that occurred months ago and the other issues we face - that elected officials would focus on such a non-issue," he wrote.

History of banning products

Suffolk County has, in the past, banned substances available commercially that it deemed unsafe for the public.

In 20111, the Suffolk County Legislature banned the sale of chemicals found in some bath salts, resulting in a product it determined was "powdered synthetic cocaine" and had been ingested as a hallucinogen. That same year,  which banned the sale of gel candles in Suffolk County. The proposal was  who was seriously burned in his family's backyard.

What do you think?

Do you allow your kids to drink energy drinks? Should Suffolk County ban minors from buying them? Share your opinion in the comment below.


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