The FDA oversees the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), who recently approved an application by Lipsmark company for the labels of Powdered alcohol known as Palcohol. Then the TTB reversed their decision of approval, stating it was made in “error.” The New York State Senate, being concerned with the TTB’s seemingly capricious decision making, has recently approved a bill that would make Palcohol illegal in New York should the TTB change their minds again. The bill will now go to the New York State Assembly for a vote and if approved, New York State will join Alaska, South Carolina and Vermont in prohibiting Palcohol, which has been dubbed by many to be the new “Adult Kool-Aid.”
Proponents praise Palcohol as being a mobile “party in a packet,” opening the door for good times on the go. But many people see Palcohol as a dangerous invention that will add fuel to the already raging fire of alcohol related problems. One opponent in particular is U.S Senator Charles Schumer of New York. Senator Schumer has asked the FDA to block federal approval of Palcohol, due to what he believes are inherent dangers.
Lipsmark company has now reportedly resubmitted an application for Palcohol to the TTB. Palcohol is to initially come in six different varieties including Rum, Vodka, Cosmopolitan, Mojito, Powderita and Lemon Drop. Senator Schumer warns that, “Palcohol can be easily concealed and brought into concerts, school dances, and sporting events, it can be sprinkled on food and can even be snorted.” In a news release Senator Schumer continued, “Given that the federal TTB can only judge and approve new alcohol products based on taxation and labeling, it’s clear the FDA must utilize its authority to intervene when alcohol products create significant health risks…and stop this potentially deadly product in its tracks.”
Palcohol is one of many health related political footballs that have been layed at the feet of the FDA. The question now is as to what the FDA will do with it. Will they pick it up and carry the ball in a way that protects the people or will they resort to politics as usual and just punt?
Long Island Lawyer
Paul A. Lauto, Esq.
www.liattorney.com
Mr. Lauto has primarily focused on personal injury throughout his career and previously worked as in-house counsel to a major insurance company. In 2002 Mr. Lauto established Paul A. Lauto, PLLC, with a primary concentration on personal injury, all types of accident cases, Wills, Trusts and Estates and more. Paul is the sole author of his Scales of Justice blog, which provides updates and information about current legal stories in the news and how they may affect our lives. Mr. Lauto prides himself on providing clients maximum results, with a high level of personal attorney service and attention that is uncommon in the profession. For more information please visit http://www.liattorney.com
