Proposed legislation in Quebec to prohibit the sale of energy drinks to individuals under 16 is anticipated to be approved on Thursday. This move would establish Quebec as the primary North American jurisdiction to impose age-related limitations on caffeinated energy drinks.
The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government required unanimous consent to expedite the legislation before the conclusion of the parliamentary session this week. Despite some Independent MNAs being undecided until the final moments, they have now aligned with the CAQ to endorse the swift implementation of Bill 9, also known as the “Zachary Miron Act.” Potential amendments could be introduced later.
The provincial government introduced this legislation following the tragic death of 15-year-old Zachary in 2024, who passed away after consuming a can of Red Bull in conjunction with ADHD medication.
The National Assembly has approved the preliminary motion to advance Bill 9. Various stakeholders, including pharmacists, cardiologists, public health experts, and advocacy groups, addressed elected officials in Quebec City after the Conservative Party requested special public consultations.
The last two Independent MNAs, Pierre Dufour and Sona Lakhoyan Olivier, who were hesitant, decided to back the measure after consulting with cardiologist Dr. Paul Poirier, an expert on the risks associated with caffeinated energy drinks. Dufour, representing Abitibi-Est, initially opposed the accelerated process, suggesting the ban should target children under 14. He criticized experts from the Institut national de santé publique du Québec for not clarifying the rationale behind setting the age threshold at 16 during committee hearings.
Lakhoyan Olivier expressed a preference for limiting the ban to those under 14, cautioning against hasty decisions. Despite acknowledging the grief of Miron’s parents, she emphasized the importance of thoughtful legislation. Poirier assured her that cardiologists would continue enhancing the law in the future.
Although Independent MNA Youri Chassin initially planned to obstruct the swift adoption process, he eventually relented but stated his intention to oppose the bill. MNA Isabelle Poulet from Laporte also opted not to impede the accelerated procedure.
Health Minister Sonia Bélanger emphasized that the legislation aims to safeguard children, describing it as a reasonable and cautious step. The bill would prohibit the sale or distribution of energy drinks to individuals under 16 and prevent those aged 16 or older from purchasing these drinks for minors.
Verification of age through government-issued photo identification would be mandatory for purchasing these beverages, and online and vending machine sales would be banned. Penalties for violations include a $100 fine for individuals under 16 and fines ranging from $500 to $1,500 for adults. Businesses could face fines up to $62,500, with penalties potentially doubling for repeat offenses. An accepted amendment mandates the government to publish a follow-up report on the law’s impact two years post-enactment.
