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As part of a package of emergency cuts and tax hikes to shore up the state's ballooning budget deficit, Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has proposed eliminating the sales tax exemption on candy and sweetened beverages, including sodas, according to The Boston Globe in Boston, Mass. If the legislature adopts the measure, a 5 percent tax would be added to candy and soda purchases.
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Editor's Insight: Gov. Patrick is following the example of New York Gov. David Paterson, who has also proposed a "fat" tax on soda.
On one hand, Massachusetts' Patrick says the money is needed to help cover a budget deficit, but he also claims he will use some of the money to support health and wellness awareness programs.
To the extent that money is needed to cover a budget deficit, it is unfair to expect candy and soda consumers to shoulder the burden.
To the extent that he wants to improve health and wellness, the governor's concern is admirable, but the consumers at the present time are more concerned about rising prices. The governor should listen to his constituents and scrap this plan. 01-30-09 by Elliot Maras
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If they are so worried about our health how about making food that is good for us cheaper than junk food? Lower the price of all the food that is good for us and we will buy it and be healthier.