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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 219-10
May 20, 2010

STATEMENT OF MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON THE REVISED SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGE TAX

“Our Administration strongly supported the proposed tax on sugar-sweetened beverages as a way to combat the obesity epidemic and further support our schools, hospitals and clinics. After listening to concerns raised by the State Legislature, Governor Paterson has wisely reframed the measure. By exempting low-calorie beverages from all state and local sales taxes, while also adding a tax on beverages containing more than ten calories per eight ounces, he has both expanded the health impact of the measure and addressed concerns of the industry. The new proposal will discourage consumption of high-calorie beverages while simultaneously making lower-calorie beverages more affordable, which will help lead to major gains in public health. I encourage all legislators to take a fresh look at this issue.”







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