In Berkley, California, the people mean to kick off a national health movement by implementing an extra tax on soda. This tax, at 2 cents per ounce, is being proposed in order to lessen the extreme sugar consumption in America today. While it is a risky move for restaurant owners and most markets, the city of Berkley believes the tax would be a logically deterrent to an unhealthy habit. However, the soda companies have spent millions on staving off such taxes. It is a battle meant to be won by the Berkley officials, but a grand endeavor considering the lack of success thus far in taxes on this carbonated beverage.
This is a very strange goal in my opinion. While I am in agreement that sugar consumption needs to be cut back sharply and quickly, I don't feel like this is the best route. Among business owners especially, this tax will not be popular. Taxes for the benefit of public health have existed before and, in the case of tobacco, still do. Too much sugar can shorten a life just as easily as cigarettes, but awareness in the form of education seems like a better path.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/08/us/berkeley-officials-outspent-but-optimistic-in-battle-over-soda-tax.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&version=LargeMediaHeadlineSum&module=photo-spot-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news
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ReplyDeleteWhile I think the tax will be unpopular, it should help people become healthier.
ReplyDeleteLauren Kuehmeier
Period 2
I don't think the tax will do much. Paying a little extra for your soda won't change the craving people have for the carbonated drinks. (Myles Bennett)
ReplyDeleteYes i have to agree with Myles. Americans are to fat and have no self control to eat better. We should just get rid of sodas all together in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it ironic that they are placing a tax on sugar which was one of the catalysts for the American Revolution that we recently discussed in class? #SugarAct
ReplyDeleteI was just going to say "Sugar Act Round Two?" I'm not sure how effective this new tax is going to be.
DeleteMaybe it will be effective, maybe not.I'm leaning towards not.
ReplyDeleteThe people love their soda...
I think the idea behind this is a good one, however, the taxes are to much like the ones that have caused problems in the past. Sugar act anyone?
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking that since the Sugar Act didn't go so well, this is going to be a failure.
ReplyDeletei think this isn't such a bad idea, since we live in a society where the prices are higher on the healthier items. The amount of sugar in just one soda is more than the amount we are supposed to consume in a whole day. i think this renewed sugar act is worth the try, in hope for a healthier nation.
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