California Soda Tax Fails For Eighth Time In Six Years
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Democratic lawmakers' eighth attempt in six years to change Californians' sugar habits has stalled in the state Legislature.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom of Santa Monica put the brakes on his latest proposal for a soda tax before lawmakers on a health panel had a chance to vote it down Tuesday.
AB2782 would have imposed a 2-cent-per-ounce fee on sugary drinks. The money would have benefited clinics that address obesity, diabetes and oral health.
Spokesman Sean MacNeil says Bloom did not have enough support from members of the Assembly Health Committee to ensure the bill's passage.
MacNeil says there are no plans to amend or revive the measure.
Opponents have said soda taxes or warning labels are not likely to change behavior and may adversely affect poor people.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.