Proposed Tax on Sugary Beverages

Brittany Harris
9/18/09


The article I chose to read discussed the recent proposal to increase sales tax on sugary beverages throughout the U.S. It has been said that there should be a one cent tax on every ounce of beverage purchased. By doing this, an estimated 14.9 billion dollars (within the first year alone) will provide additional funds to be spent on health care. While even President Obama admits the idea would be well worth consideration, chief executive of Coca Cola argues that the idea is outrageous is a waste of time.

Reaction: Overall, I think the idea would be a great start to health reform. While the thought of paying extra for an occasionally soda or Red Bull isn’t the best one, I’m willing to support this proposal if it would lead to a happy healthier America. For years, various work-out plans and fitness centers have provided availability to America citizens and only a portion has taken advantage of them. The fact that we even feel the need to consider an idea like this one is sad. There are several options to improving one’s well being but if they are not willing to do it, we resort to things such as this one. I am interested to see what other people think about this particular proposal.