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California Cities Gear Up To Vote on Ballot Initiatives To Tax Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

http://origin.eastbaymedia.com/~advisoryboard/podcast_media/California-Cities-Gear-Up.mp3%20

In a California Healthline Special Report by Deirdre Kennedy, experts discussed local ballot initiatives that would tax sugar-sweetened beverages in the California cities of Richmond and El Monte.

Supporters of the initiatives say such taxes would raise funds for anti-obesity programs and improve residents’ health. Opponents say the taxes would hurt local businesses and raise the cost of living.

The Special Report includes comments from:

  • El Monte Planning Commissioner Art Barrios;
  • Chuck Finnie, spokesperson for the Community Coalition Against Beverage Taxes;
  • El Monte Mayor Andre Quintero (D); and
  • Richmond City Council member Jeff Ritterman (Kennedy, California Healthline, 9/12).

The complete transcript of this Special Report is available as a PDF.

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