Bill to tax sugar-sweetened beverages is shelved

The state Senate Health Committee shelved a bill today that would have imposed a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, and the syrup and powder used to make them, in an effort to combat childhood obesity.

"We did not have the kind of activity (regarding community support) on this bill that I think warrants the passage of a major public health policy," Sen. Josh Green (D, Milolii-Waimea), chairman of the Senate Health Committee, said during a decision-making meeting.