New York's highest court has refused to reinstate New York City's restriction on the sale of big sodas.

The state's Court of Appeals ruled Thursday that the city's health department overstepped its bounds when it restricted the size of sodas.

The court is siding with a lower court that overturned the 2012 rule. The city had hoped Thursday's ruling would reinstate the restrictions, which banned the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces in certain establishments.

Pushed by then-Mayor Michael Bloomberg as a way to fight obesity and other health conditions, the limits would have applied to restaurants, delis, movie theaters, stadiums and street carts. Restaurants, theater owners and beverage companies sued. They argued that New York City didn't have the authority to impose such a restriction.

Some New Yorkers like Colin Palech praised the court's decision to let the limit die. "Maybe it should come with some warning it's not good for you," Palech said. "But I don't think it should be regulated."

The mayor's office said in a statement that they are extremely disappointed by the ruling.

"While we are still examining the Court’s decision, it is our responsibility to address the causes of this epidemic," the statement said. "The City is actively reviewing all of its options to protect the health and well-being of our communities.”

With reports by the Associated Press.