A dispute last summer over whether a 7-year-old boy had the proper permits to operate a lemonade stand has prompted legislative action in New York.

A bill introduced this year in Albany would clarify the law to exempt stands run by children 16 or younger from needing a state permit.

Last July a state health inspector shut down 7-year-old Brendan Mulvaney�s stand in Ballston Spa because he lacked a permit. State officials said vendors at a nearby county fair had complained.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo intervened and directed health officials to ensure Brendan�s stand reopened and the health department later apologized. Officials said stands run by children typically aren�t required to have permits.

The bill passed the Senate health Committee earlier this week. It hasn�t been scheduled for a full vote.

(AP)