Update: Soda Tax discussions Bubble Up in Philly

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Update May 2016: City Council President suggests an alternative lower priced soda tax

Update March 2016: Mayor Kenney cast supporters as everyday residents who stand to benefit from the levy.

Mayor Kenney officially launched his campaign to tax sugary drinks on Wednesday, March 16th, 2016.

In a recent article Kenney stated that he believes he cannot fail, and will plan to put the tax revenues back into low-income neighborhoods through universal pre-K, community schools, and upgrades to parks and recreation centers.

The purposed soda tax would levy a three-cents-per-ounce tax on sugary drinks, hoping to bring $432 million over five years to the community. However, coalitions like the Philadelphians Against the Grocery tax, funded by the American Beverage Association, are arguing otherwise, stating that this tax will hurt the poor and cause a loss of jobs.

Other members of a new coalition have joined together to help support the tax, stating that the benefits will outweigh the burdens on consumers.

The new coalition includes pre-K advocates, teachers, the Philadelphia chapter of the NAACP and more community advocates.

Daily consumption of soda and sugary beverages have been linked in various research studies to higher risks for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and higher risks for unhealthy weights in children.

To read more, click  here.

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