Energy drinks may become illegal for those under 18 years old if a newly proposed bill is passed by the Senate.
Senate Bill 369 aims to make it a class C misdemeanor to sell, give or distribute an energy drink to someone less than 18 years of age.
The bill was introduced on January 10.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says up to 50 percent of adolescents report consuming energy drinks. The CDC also reports that while stimulants such as energy drinks can increase alertness and attention, that can also have a harmful effect on the nervous system.
If the bill is passed, getting caught with an energy drink while underage would have the same consequence as a first-time driving under the influence offense when the driver’s BAC is less than .15.
