Aloha! Hawaii Takes Another Look at a Soda Tax

Senate Health Committee hears from a panel of experts discussing the effects of sweetened beverages.

March 31, 2011

HONOLULU - Hawaii??s Senate Health Committee heard from a panel of experts and physicians earlier this week address the health effects of sweetened beverages, especially on children, BusinessWeek reports.

The hearing suggests Hawaii lawmakers are considering reintroducing a bill to impose a soda tax, after lawmakers tabled the idea earlier this year.

However, as the state faces a nearly $1 billion deficit over the next two years, revenue is needed to help balance the budget.

Governor Neil Abercrombie has endorsed the creation of a soda tax ?" 25 cents for each container larger than 12 ounces, and 10 cents on smaller containers ?" a move that is projected to raise nearly $40 million a year.

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