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.