Obesity tax fails in NY, Paterson lies saying proposal served its purpose

[DougMD]

He lies because he says the purpose is to fight obesity, when the real purpose is the $500 million in revenues a year:
Paterson Admits Obesity Tax Plan Has Failed
Governor Tells College Students Legislature Will Never Go For Controversial Plan, But Feels Point Was Made
[/align]MORRISVILLE, N.Y. (CBS) "•



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It's strange, but true. In his annual state budget, Gov. David Paterson proposed an obesity tax, charging New Yorkers 15 percent more for buying regular soda.
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New York Gov. David Paterson admitted Thursday one of his most talked-about tax proposals, an obesity tax on sugary drinks, is fizzling.

But he said it popped the right question.

In meeting with college students over his budget, Paterson told the young New Yorkers not worry about his soda tax because the Legislature won't go for it. But he said it has served its purpose of raising awareness of childhood obesity.

His proposal would put an 18-percent tax on soda and other sugary drinks containing less than 70 percent fruit juice. His analysis showed it would raise a projected $1 billion in revenue over two years and reduce use of sugary drinks by 5 percent.

The fat tax was the subject of articles, editorials, polls, talk radio and TV commentaries.

The plan had beensupported by New York City Health Commissioner Thomas Frieden.

"Every can of regular soda has the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar "“ 150 calories. Children that cut down on their soda intake cut down on their risk fo becoming overweight or obese," Frieden said.

The American Beverage Association planned to fight the obesity tax, which targeted the main soft drink of America.

"Why single out one product? It's not going to solve the obesity problem and it's not a fair tax on the people of New York," said Susan Neely, President and CEO of the company.
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[burniegoeasily]

He should have just added some junk foods to the sin tax. It would have sounded more P.C. and would have been easier to pass.

[DougMD]

Then it sounds even more like real concern, and key to the intent -brings in over $1 billion a year extra to the looters!

[Lanse couche couche]

If they want a real obesity tax that would raise lots of money, just charge every fat person in Ohio a buck every time they wantto get into the local Ci Ci's $4.99 pizza buffet. It would raise billions.

[cascadedad]

Dang Lanse, you've aged!!!!

[Lanse couche couche]

The body is rusting out, but the motor still runs good[8D]

[Aught Six]

Well, I guess it was a good point to be made. Voters aren't going put up with endless legislative nannyism. Even in a state as blue-tinged as New York.