Bill > S02330

This bill establishes a comprehensive excise tax on sugary drinks in New York State, imposing tax rates based on the sugar content of beverages. Specifically, beverages with more than 7.5 grams of sugar per 12 fluid ounces will be taxed at either one or two cents per ounce, depending on their total sugar content. The tax applies to both bottled drinks and syrups/powders used to make sugary drinks. The revenue generated from this tax will be deposited into a new Community Health Equity Fund, which will allocate the money to various health-focused initiatives. Fifty percent of the funds will support SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) incentives for fruit and vegetable purchases, while the other fifty percent will go to a community health benefits trust. The bill also creates a 13-member Community Advisory Board on Health Equity to oversee the fund's allocation, with members appointed by state political leaders and representing various public health perspectives. Exemptions to the tax include drinks sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners, 100% fruit or vegetable juices with no added sugars, milk-based beverages, infant formula, and medical use beverages. The tax is designed to discourage sugary drink consumption and promote healthier beverage choices while generating funding for community health programs.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2330