Richmond, Calif. lawmakers have put a measure on the ballot that charges businesses a penny for every ounce of soda they sell, leaving it up to the sellers to decide how to pass along the to the consumers, according to The Wall Street Journal. For the full story, click here.
Editor’s Insight: This proposed soda tax differs from others in that it does not directly tax the consumer, but no one really believes it won’t ultimately be paid for by the consumer.
This article in The Wall Street Journal has a pair of charts that refute the assumption that reducing sugary drinks will result in lower obesity rates. One chart shows rising obesity from 1996 to 2010 while the other shows declining sugary beverage consumption from 2000 to 2011.
Vending and refreshment service operators should join retailers and beverage companies in educating their customers about the proposal. This is nothing more than another money grab in a state that cannot afford it. 08-13-12 By Elliot Maras
