A group of House Democrats is advocating for a tax on sweetened drinks to fund universal school meals in Connecticut. The proposed tax would charge businesses two cents per ounce on sweetened beverages, syrups, and powders.
Rep. Moira Rader (D-Guilford) said the tax would create a dedicated revenue stream for school meals without tapping into the state budget. “We could show the governor and leadership we’ve found a funding source,” Rader explained during a public hearing.
The tax would apply to drinks with added sweeteners, including sodas, juices, iced teas, and coffees. Exemptions would include 100% fruit juices, milk-based drinks with at least 50% milk, and personal-use drink powders.
University of Connecticut researchers estimate the tax could raise $206 million. However, Connecticut Restaurant Association President Scott Dolch warned that businesses would likely pass the cost on to consumers, impacting small businesses and restaurants.
Despite concerns, Rader argued the tax could reduce sugary drink consumption and benefit public health. Research shows such taxes lead to a 15% drop in sugary drink purchases.
A recent survey found that 72 Connecticut school districts had $862,555 in school lunch debt. End Hunger Connecticut’s Amari Brantley stressed the importance of state-funded meals for food-insecure students, with 30% of children in Connecticut experiencing food insecurity.
Republicans argue that the state should find funding within its existing budget rather than creating a new tax. Some also voiced concerns about potential cuts to federal aid.
Gov. Ned Lamont’s budget includes $15 million over two years to support meals for reduced-price meal recipients and plans for universal free breakfasts by 2027. A spokesman for Lamont’s office reiterated the governor’s commitment to ensuring no student goes hungry.
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