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Energy drink sales to SC teens could be banned after too much caffeine kills 16-year-old

Right now, energy drinks have labels that say they're not recommended for consumption by children. However, Davis Cripe's parents say more needs to be done, because that warning was not enough to save their 16-year-old's life.

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- It could soon be illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase energy drinks in South Carolina.

A new bill introduced in the state house this week is being pushed by parents whose 16-year-old son died after officials said he consumed too much caffeine.

Right now, energy drinks have labels that say they're not recommended for consumption by children. However, Davis Cripe’s parents say more needs to be done, because that warning was not enough to save their child’s life.

“Right before his heart stopped, he had chugged an energy drink,” Sean Cripe said.

RELATED: SC teen dies from excessive caffeine

Davis was laid to rest last year. Now, with the help of his parents, state lawmakers are introducing a bill that would make it illegal to sell or give an energy drink to anyone under the age of 18.

“We look it as an adult decision and we want them to have time be educated on this,” Cripe added.

But not everyone agrees with the age cap.

“If they put a ban on it, it shouldn’t be lower than 16 because I feel like your body should be developed,” said Freddie Boulware.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends adults consume no more than 400 mg of caffeine per day and recommend children stay away from it all together.

“Children and adolescents really shouldn't be drinking caffeine at all. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no caffeine for children and adolescents,” Dr. Colin Kane said.

If the bill passes, South Carolina would be the first state in the country to put an age limit on the energy drink sales. Anyone who violated the law would be hit with a $50 fine.

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