Bill > H3329

This bill establishes a tiered system of tax incentives to promote healthy alternatives to sugary drinks in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. A tax on distributors of sugary drinks, with beverages containing less than 5 grams of sugar per 12 fluid ounces not taxed, those with 5-20 grams taxed at $0.01 per ounce, and those with 20 grams or more taxed at $0.02 per ounce. Syrups and powders used to make sugary drinks are also taxed based on the sugar content of the resulting beverage. 2. The creation of a Children's Health Promotion Fund to be funded by the tax revenue, which will be used for initiatives like expanding the Mass in Motion program, the Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund, water fluoridation, nutrition programs for low-income preschools and child care facilities, and educational campaigns about the health effects of sugary drinks. 3. A requirement for schools to prohibit advertising of sugary drinks and corporate branding of drinks that don't meet USDA nutrition standards. 4. A requirement for chain restaurants to only offer water, milk, or 100% juice as the default beverage in children's meals. 5. A requirement for sugary drink advertisements to carry a health warning label. 6. The establishment of a Special Commission to evaluate and make recommendations for improving public access to drinking water.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H3329