My 11-year-old daughter recently walked into our local convenience store and bought an energy drink. As a parent, and a concerned member of this community, it terrifies me that our children can easily access these potentially harmful beverages. Energy drinks are known to contain high levels of caffeine, B vitimans, minerals, herbal ingredients, and other stimulants, which can lead to serious health effects on developing bodies, such as heart problems and neurological complications. 

A 2014 study by the Canadian Medical Association Journal indicated a notable increase in the number of young people hospitalized, including death, due to consuming energy drinks (Source: Canadian Medical Association Journal). The problem is serious and growing as our convenience store shelves are laden with these products with little to no restrictions on who can purchase them.

Chief Medical Officer of Health, NB, Jennifer Russell, has also voiced her concerns regarding the 'extreme dangers' of children consuming energy drinks, strongly advises against it, and encourages retailers to stop selling these dangerous products to children and adolescents. 

I urge New Brunswick lawmakers to impose regulations that prohibit the sale of energy drinks to minors, just like how they do with alcohol and tobacco. Those in violation of these rules should face legal repercussions for putting the lives of our children at risk.

It's time to put our children's health first. Sign this petition to ensure new regulations are put in place - because no child should be able to purchase energy drinks in New Brunswick.