New York ( CNN ) -- New York 's Court of Appeals ruled Thursday that New York City 's ban on large sugary drinks , which was previously blocked by lower courts , is illegal . `` We hold that the New York City Board of Health , in adopting the 'Sugary Drinks Portion Cap Rule , ' exceeded the scope of its regulatory authority , '' the ruling said . Christopher Gindlesperger , a spokesman for the American Beverage Association , praised the ruling . `` We are pleased that the lower courts ' decisions were upheld , '' he said in a statement . `` It would have created an uneven playing field for thousands of small businesses in the city and limited New Yorkers ' freedom of choice . With this ruling behind us , we look forward to collaborating with city leaders on solutions that will have a meaningful and lasting impact on New Yorkers and families across the country . '' Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg had pushed for the ban on sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces as a way to fight obesity and other health problems . In a statement , Bloomberg 's successor , Mayor Bill de Blasio , expressed disappointment with the decision . `` The negative effects of sugary drink over-consumption on New Yorkers ' health , particularly among low-income communities , are irrefutable , '' the statement said . `` We can not turn our backs on the high rates of obesity and diabetes that adversely impact the lives of so many of our residents . While we are still examining the Court 's decision , it is our responsibility to address the causes of this epidemic , and the City is actively reviewing all of its options to protect the health and well-being of our communities . '' Sugary drinks linked to 180,000 deaths worldwide .
New York appeals courts rules that city 's ban on large sugary drinks is illegal . Decision says Board of Health `` exceeded scope of its regulatory authority '' Industry group praises the decision , says ban was unfair to small businesses . Mayor Bill de Blasio : `` We can not turn our backs on the high rates of obesity and diabetes ''