Dec 16, 2008 6:34 am US/Eastern
Obesity Tax: You Drink Regular Soda, You Pay More
Paterson Seeks To Unveil Proposed Tax In '09 Budget Plan
ALBANY (CBS) ―
-
-
It's strange, but true. In his annual state budget, Gov. David Paterson is proposing an obesity tax, charging New Yorkers 15 percent more for buying regular soda.
AP
If your favorite can of cola doesn't include the word "diet" on its label, get ready to pay more for that bubbly sip.
It's strange, but true. In his annual state budget, Gov. David Paterson is proposing an obesity tax, charging New Yorkers 15 percent more for buying regular soda.
"I think it's crazy," says Francine Powell of the Bronx. "How much more do you want to tax us? We're living day by day, paycheck by paycheck."
But the plan, which would raise an estimated $404 million, is being supported by New York City Health Commissioner Thomas Frieden.
"Every can of regular soda has the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar – 150 calories. Children that cut down on their soda intake cut down on their risk fo becoming overweight or obese," he says.
But would a 15 percent increase in price really effect the way New Yorkers drink?
"Instead of $1.20, I would be paying $1.30-35. It wouldn't really bother me," says Abdur Ashique of Woodside.
Bronx resident Chris O'Neal wouldn't change his tastes either. "Given the choice, I would stick with [regular soda]. I like the taste and diet soda has an after taste after a while," he says.
The American Beverage Association plans to fight the "obesity tax" which targets the main soft drink of America.
"Why single out one product? It's not going to solve the obesity problem and it's not a fair tax on the people of New York," says Susan Neely, President and CEO of the company.
Paterson will unveil his budget plan on Tuesday.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
2009 Celebrity Deaths
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Comments