Bill > S2752

This bill establishes a new tax on sugary drinks and creates a Health Promotion Fund to address health inequities in the Commonwealth. The legislation imposes a tax of one cent per ounce on sugary drinks containing 7.5-30 grams of sugar per 12 fluid ounces, and two cents per ounce for drinks with more than 30 grams of sugar per 12 fluid ounces. The tax applies to distributors selling these beverages to retailers, with specific exemptions for certain products like 100% fruit/vegetable juices, milk-based beverages, infant formula, medical beverages, and water without added sugars. The revenue collected will be distributed across three funds: 40% to the Commonwealth Care Trust Fund, 20% to the medical assistance trust fund, and 40% to a new Health Promotion Fund. The Health Promotion Fund will be administered by the Department of Public Health to support communities most impacted by health inequities, focusing on preventable health conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The department is required to produce an annual report detailing its strategy for fund allocation, including identifying prevalent health conditions, health disparities, and recommending specific areas of focus for funding.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Revenue (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2752