In a rare show of cross-party unity, the Czech Parliament is moving forward with legislation to restrict energy drink sales to minors, though the initiative faces opposition from within the ruling ODS party. The health committee has nearly unanimously approved the amendment, with only one ANO party member abstaining.
The proposed law would restrict energy drink sales near schools and require age verification for vending machines and e-commerce platforms. The final age limit – whether 15, 16, or 18 – will be determined in the third reading, with implementation targeted for July 2026.
Despite strong support across the political spectrum, including from ODS members Zdeňka Crkvenjaš Němečková and Renáta Zajíčková, the bill faces resistance from their party colleagues. Some ODS members argue that such regulations infringe on parental rights and represent excessive state control.
The debate took an interesting turn when former athlete and ODS member Jakub Janda provocatively proposed extending restrictions to fast food, highlighting broader concerns about youth health. However, he later withdrew the proposal.
Proponents emphasize that the law aims to protect children who might purchase multiple energy drinks on their way to school, while still allowing parents to buy these beverages for their children if they choose.