Dive Summary:

• Lawyers representing the NYC Board of Health and the beverage industry began what is sure to be a lengthy court battle on Wednesday this week.
• The controversy, brainchild of Mayor Bloomberg, is over the banning of sugary drinks in containers greater than 16 oz., a decision that has left the beverage industry reeling.
• A lawyer for NYC has argued that these measures are rational in an effort to fight a growing obesity problem.  The beverage industry came back with claims of unfair legislation and an overreaching government. 
   

From the article:

In October, the beverage industry challenged the ban in a 61-page lawsuit that claims the New York City Board of Health usurped the role of the City Council and lacked authority to issue a rule to prohibit certain businesses from selling sugar-sweetened beverages that are larger than 16 ounces. City officials contend the health board has authority to pass the regulations.

Wednesday's hearing was an opportunity for both sides to present their case in person before Justice Milton A. Tingling Jr.