State senators sponsor bill to put tax on sugar-sweetened drinks
Four Hawaii senators have proposed a statewide tax on sugar-sweetened beverages.
The Democratic senators said the consumption of sugary drinks contributes to obesity. Hawaii ranks second-to-last for adult obesity compared to other states.
The senators want to charge 1 cent per teaspoon of sugar in each drink and use the revenue to fund community health centers and help trauma victims. They say the tax would translate to about 10 cents per 12-ounce soda.
