Legal challenges to New York soda ban face uphill climb

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s proposed ban on large-size sugary soft drinks in New York isn’t winning him many new friends in the beverage and restaurant industries. Trouble is, they may not be able to stop him, at least in the courts. The mayor’s proposal would change the city’s administrative code, giving the health department the power to levy fines on most restaurants, movie theaters, food carts and delis that sell sugary soft drinks larger than 16 ounces. The health board is expected to pass the plan later this year, and the law could take effect by next spring. …