• As previously covered on this blog, a number of U.S. cities have implemented controversial taxes on soft drinks.  This trend appears poised to continue with an upcoming public hearing in Santa Fe, New Mexico concerning a proposed soft drink tax slated for March 8, 2017.
  • Spearheaded by Santa Fe Mayor, Javier Gonzales, the proposed tax would levy a 2-cent-per-ounce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages sold in the city (but not on diet soda).  The tax is ostensibly meant to fund pre-school programs for 3- and 4-year-olds.  Following the March 8, 2017 public hearing, the Santa Fe City Council will vote on whether to move forward with putting the proposal before voters in a special election this May.
  • Reaction to the proposed soda tax is predictably mixed.  We will continue to monitor whether Sante Fe moves forward with the proposed tax and, importantly, whether other jurisdictions follow suit.