Boulder Launches Campaign for 2-Cent-per-Ounce Tax on Soda, Sugar Drinks

Statement of CSPI President Michael F. Jacobson

April 21, 2016

Boulder, Colorado, is the latest U.S. city looking to put the health of its citizens above the profits of Big Soda. Local community members and organizations announced today they will seek to put on the November ballot a measure to levy a 2-cent-per-ounce excise tax on sugar drinks. The approximately $3.8 million raised annually would be used to increase nutritional and physical activity programs, especially for low-income residents. Today, excessive consumption of sugar drinks is costing Boulder’s citizens an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, obesity and tooth decay. The proposed tax is a good step toward reducing those costs.