NEW YORK (AP) - Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposal to ban large sugary drinks from New York City eateries is moving forward.
The proposal is scheduled to be formally submitted to the city's board of health Tuesday morning. The board is expected to hold a series of public hearings during a 90-day comment period.
The ban on drinks over 16 ounces would apply only to sweetened options that contain more than 25 calories per 8 ounces. It would not apply to diet soda or any other calorie-free drink.
It's the first time a city has proposed such a ban, which the mayor says is necessary to combat the rise in obesity deaths.
A new poll says New Yorkers are divided on the ban, with about half saying Bloomberg has gone too far.