Bill
SD 2118
Overview: Bill Number: SD 2118, Title: An Act to promote healthy alternatives to sugary drinks, Status: House concurred, Introduced: February 27, 2025, Classification: proposed bil
Overview: Bill Number: SD 2118, Title: An Act to promote healthy alternatives to sugary drinks, Status: House concurred, Introduced: February 27, 2025, Classification: proposed bill
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill is to encourage the consumption of healthier beverage options by imposing a tax on the distribution of sugary drinks. The intent is to reduce the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues associated with excessive sugar intake, particularly among children and adolescents.
Key Provisions:
- Imposes a 2-cent-per-ounce tax on the distribution of any non-alcoholic beverage containing added sugar or caloric sweeteners.
- Exempts 100% fruit juices, milk-based beverages, and drinks containing no more than 25 calories per 12-ounce serving from the tax.
- Requires the revenue generated from the tax to be allocated to public health initiatives, including education campaigns and subsidies for the distribution of healthy drink alternatives in schools and low-income communities.
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Consumers of sugary drinks, who may face higher prices and be incentivized to choose healthier alternatives.
- Beverage manufacturers and distributors, who will be responsible for paying the tax and may need to adjust their product offerings and pricing strategies.
- Public health agencies and community organizations, which will receive funding to promote healthy drinking habits and address related health disparities.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill has passed the House and is currently awaiting concurrence in the Senate. If approved, the sugary drink tax would take effect 6 months after the bill's enactment, with revenue allocation and public health initiatives phased in over the following 12 months.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
Sign in to ask a question.
