(Long Island, NY) Assemblyman Michael Montesano (R,C,I-Glen Head) joined his Assembly colleagues to pass legislation (A.1357-A) that would ban the sale of any crystalline or powdered alcohol substance in New York State.
Powdered Alcohol, also known as “palcohol,” is a powder that when mixed with liquid, creates the equivalent to an alcoholic mixed drink. In 2014, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the powdered alcohol, but quickly reversed its decision due to heightened concerns about the substance.
“Powdered alcohol is an unnecessary item that could pose many dangers to its consumers,” said Montesano. “The novelty of alcohol in this form could be very harmful, especially to adolescents, as they can easily conceal and transfer the powdered substance. By passing this legislation I hope we are able to prevent this potentially dangerous substance from falling into the wrong hands.”
Since its initial approval, several states, including Louisiana, South Carolina, Utah,Vermont, Alaska and Virginia have passed similar legislation to prohibit sale of such items.
The bill has recently been passed in the Senate and is awaiting action from the governor.
