California has moved closer to imposing a complete ban on powdered alcohol, with the state's assembly unanimously passing AB 1554.

Last month, a companion bill, called SB 819, was unanimously passed by the Senate.

According to consumer watchdog Alcohol Justice, 31 states have now legislated or regulated a complete ban on powdered alcohol. To date, 113 out of 120 California legislators have voted for a powdered alcohol ban.

“We hope California will be state number 32 to 'just say no' to another stupid alcohol product that will appeal to kids.”

Alcohol Justice CEO / executive dirtector Bruce Lee Livingston said: "We hope California will be state number 32 to 'just say no' to another stupid alcohol product that will appeal to kids."

"Now that both California bills banning powdered alcohol have passed their house of origin, we expect them to sail forward, combine, and get to Governor Brown for a quick signature."

In March 2015, Alcohol Justice urged for emergency legislative action across the country in response to news that the US Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) had approved labels for the powdered alcohol product, called Palcohol.

The TTB approval gave a green light for the tax rates and labels, enabling states to allow the product to regulate or ban.

Since last March, new laws have been passed in 31 states to prohibit the possession, purchase, sale, offer for sale, distribution, manufacture, or use of powdered alcohol.

Several states impose fines for the violation of these provisions.

In ten states, the legislation to ban the product is in the pipeline. Only three states allow sales of palcohol.

California Alcohol Policy Alliance (CAPA) spokesperson Dr Jim Kooler said: "Powdered Alcohol has a high potential to attract youth with its convenience, fruity flavors and portability.

"Young people who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence and are two and half times more likely to become abusers of alcohol than those who being drinking at age 21."