Decibels for dollar, soda taxes or “sugary beverage taxes” spark some of the loudest policy debates relative to the amount of money they raise. Part of the reason is because sugary beverages have so deeply ingrained themselves into our collective minds – Santa Claus is always dressed in red today because of Coca-Cola marketing. In this free-flowing conversation, we’ll discuss what the latest data are actually revealing about the impact of these policies so far and whether they live up to the promises early proponents made about them — and just what were those promises to begin with? Since Berkeley became the first city to pass a soda tax in 2014, the debates have gotten louder and more complex, with seven other cities passing their own versions, billionaire philanthropists jumping in to support their expansion, and big beverage corporations fighting back with a vengeance. Meanwhile, peer-reviewed studies are now available that actually reveal what happens when these policies are put in place. Low-income households are bearing the brunt of the tax burdens created, but the net benefit of these policies can still result in a positive for low-income neighborhoods. This conversation will feature the voices of public health experts and long-time advocates for soda taxes as well as someone in the position of ensuring the funds raised get used to benefit the communities that are bearing the brunt of the tax burden created. This session is part of Next City’s Solutions of the Year, a multi-day virtual convening of seven sessions that will frame the conversation for 2023. Purchase a single ticket now to all of the events for just $50, or pay what you wish by registering for each event individually. Everyone who donates will receive a copy of our annual Solutions of the Year special issue magazine. [[person_1]] [[person_2]] [[person_3]] [[person_4]]