July 26—The Manatee County School Board, in Bradenton, Fla., voted 4-0 to ban energy drinks from schools, placing them on the same level as cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs.
School officials say the high sugar and caffeine is a bad combination for students. Each 16 ounce can has about 200 calories, more than 14 teaspoons of sugar, and 200 milligrams of caffeine, the same as in about three cups of coffee.
The new ban will take effect this school year. A student caught with an energy drink will first get a warning, but if they're caught again they could face suspension.