It specifically targets caffeinated beers and other drinks that can contain up to five times the alcohol of regular beer, the bill's author says the combination of caffeine and alcohol is a real health hazard.
"Some of the young people drinking this have been prone to drive because they are not feeling the effects of the alcohol, and that can only lead to bigger tragedies here," said St. Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Los Angeles.
At least six other states have passed similar bans on caffeinated alcoholic drinks. The California bill does not affect beverages like Irish coffee.
