Obesity Tax

An "obesity tax" has been proposed by New York Governor David Paterson along with several other new taxes in order to bridge the state's budget deficit gap. The obesity tax would apply to the purchase of non-diet sodas and would reportedly result in $404 million in state revenues.New York Post: Governor Paterson proposes 'Obesity Tax' (December 21, 2008)

Governor Paterson's proposed budget of $121 billion is scheduled to be released on Tuesday, December 16, 2008. The budget includes many cuts as well as new taxes in an attempt to gain hold of the financial crisis of his state. Overall the plan calls for roughly $9 billion in cuts, $4 billion in new taxes and over $1 billion in non-recurring revenues.New York Post: Governor Paterson proposes 'Obesity Tax' (December 21, 2008)

Reaction to the proposal of an obesity tax has come in on both sides of the issue. Health advocates see it as a way to curb the consumption of non-diet drinks, which they say could have an impact on obesity rates. Others say it is just another way for the state government to get into the pockets of the people, and that the real issue is the failure to produce a balanced budget.MSNBC: Governor proposes 18% obesity tax... (December 17, 2008)