Soda Tax Measure Passes First Committee

A California measure that would tax sugary drinks a penny per fluid ounce passed its first committee test Wednesday.

The bill’s author said sodas, energy drinks and sweet teas are a huge culprit in alarming obesity trends and skyrocketing diabetes rates.

Supporters said the tax would raise more than a billion dollars in the first year. Funds would go toward a children’s health promotion fund.

The California Restaurant Association is opposed to the bill. It said it’s unfair to burden working families with more food costs.

The bill will next be heard by the Senate Health committee on May 1.