Cholesterol

Soda would be banned, leaving only water, 100 percent fruit and vegetable juices and low-fat or nonfat milk.

In high schools, students could have decaffeinated coffee and tea for breakfast.

High school students would be limited to sugar-free, noncarbonated beverages after classes end, and sports drinks would be available only to athletes.

Many of these restrictions are contained in a separate bill sponsored by state Sen.

Kenneth LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) and Assemb.

Sandra Galef (D-Ossining).

"We are on the same page as the governor, and I'm excited about this," LaValle said yesterday, explaining Spitzer's interest increases the likelihood of a bill passing.

Still, more regulation is likely to raise the ire of school districts and vending and beverage companies.

The state's dairy farmers have derailed some past bills.

LaValle, a former grade-school teacher, acknowledged the obstacles but said action was required to help ill children, particularly those with poor dietary habits stemming from poverty.

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