SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco officials again are trying to improve residents’ health and raise money for government coffers by taxing soda and other sweetened drinks, an effort that’s previously failed to gain traction locally and in other U.S. cities.
Four city lawmakers announced that they are introducing legislation that would impose a 2 cent-per-ounce tax on soft drinks, sports drinks and energy drinks. If passed by the full 11-member Board of Supervisors, the measure would go before local voters for approval or rejection in November.
The tax would be levied on beverage distributors and retailers who obtain their products directly from manufacturers. Officials estimate it could generate as much as $31 million a year.
Under the proposal, the money would have to be used to fund recreation and nutrition programs in schools and at recreation centers, public bottle-filling and drinking fountains, healthy food services and dental health initiatives.
“We are experiencing an epidemic of health problems caused by sodas and other sugary beverages – including diabetes and obesity afflicting adults, teenagers, and even young children – and we have a responsibility to act to confront this escalating public health challenge,” Supervisor Scott Wiener, one of the measure’s backers, said.
“Just as taxes drove down tobacco use, a small tax on sodas and other sugary beverages will reduce consumption and expand access to active recreation and nutrition education for children and adults.”-AP
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