Bill > HB2734

This bill establishes a new tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in Washington state, defined as any non-alcoholic beverage containing caloric sweeteners, with specific exclusions for items like milk-based drinks, beverages for medical use, and 100% natural fruit or vegetable juices. The tax, set at $0.03 per fluid ounce, will be imposed on distributors starting January 1, 2028, and the revenue generated will be deposited into a dedicated "hunger free Washington account" to fund food security and nutrition programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), food assistance programs, and fruit and vegetable incentive programs, aiming to supplement rather than replace existing funding. Additionally, the bill prevents state agencies from seeking waivers to exclude SSBs from SNAP eligibility and amends existing law to allow cities that had a sweetened beverage tax before 2018 to adjust their local definitions, rates, and exemptions to align with this new state chapter, thereby clarifying and restoring local authority in this area.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2734&Year=2025&Initiative=false