California sugary drink tax proposal clears first hurdle
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KABC) -- Holding 16 packets of sugar to illustrate how much is put into a 20-ounce bottle of soda, state Sen. Bill Monning convinced a committee it's time to tackle California's weight problem by approving a sugar tax.
"Sugary drinks are a leading contributor of increased caloric intake, leading to obesity and preventable chronic disease in children," said Monning, a Democrat from Carmel.
Monning proposes to add a penny tax per fluid ounce to any sweetened beverage, such as soda, teas, sports and energy drinks. Californians would pay an extra 20 cents for a regular bottle, on top of the recycling fee. Drinks under 25 calories would be exempt.
The estimated $2.6 billion collected in the first year will help fund programs that fight and prevent childhood obesity.
Now with a democratic super-majority, momentum is building in Sacramento for a sugar drink tax. The proposal now heads to the Senate Health Committee, which is headed by a doctor.
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