Voters in El Monte, Richmond Reject Tax on Sweetened Beverages
On Tuesday, California voters decided on numerous local ballot initiatives, some of which related to increasing taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, the Los Angeles Times' "L.A. Now" reports.
El Monte Rejects Beverage Tax
In El Monte, voters rejected a ballot initiative -- Measure H -- that would have added a one-cent-per-ounce tax to sugar-sweetened drinks sold within the city (Allen, "L.A. Now," Los Angeles Times, 11/6).
With 84% of precincts reporting, 76% of El Monte voters rejected Measure H (McNary, "KPCC News," KPCC, 11/7).
Money generated from the tax would have been used to balance the city budget and fund anti-crime and wellness programs (California Healthline, 10/31).
Richmond Rejects Beverage Tax
In Richmond, voters rejected a ballot initiative -- Measure N -- that would have taxed local merchants one cent per ounce on beverages containing added sugar to generate about $2 million to $4 million annually.
With most precincts reporting, 67% of Richmond voters rejected Measure N.
Meanwhile, 64% of voters approved a companion initiative -- Measure O -- that would have advised the city to use Measure N revenue to fund youth health and recreation programs (Rogers, Contra Costa Times, 11/6). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.