Researchers found that taxes on sweetened beverages funded programs mainly benefiting lower-income households, including grocery subsidies and pre-K education.
A study shows lower-income households are the main beneficiaries of revenues from sweetened beverage taxes, helping fund everything from grocery subsidies to early childhood education.
The Rhode Island Public Health Institute (RIPHI) today announced their strong support of legislation (2021-S 0327 / 2021-H 5715) introduced by Sen. Valarie J. Lawson (D-Dist. 14, East Providence) and Rep. Jean Philippe Barros (D-Dist. 59, Pawtucket) establishing a tax on sugary drinks in Rhode Island. If enacted, the legislation would designate a portion of the revenues generated to expand access to nutritious food for low- income families by establishing a Retail SNAP Incentive Program that would incentivize consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables.
“Now, more than ever, many Rhode Islanders are hungry and have limited access to healthy foods. This important legislation will help alleviate hunger and promote healthy eating across Rhode Island,” said Dr. Amy Nunn, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Public Health Institute. “We are committed to developing innovative and long-term solutions to Rhode Island’s most pressing public health problems. RIPHI commends Senato