The proposed soda tax that has come back around for another go at passing was met with harsh criticism from Republican lawmakers who deem it a waste of time.
In response to the response on the sugary drink tax, KTLA's David Lazarus published an LA Times column detailing why it is so important for this tax and why we need to limit cup sizes.
"The reality is that California and the rest of the country are grappling with an obesity epidemic that has caused rates of diabetes, heart disease and other costly chronic illnesses to soar," David writes. "And there is a long history of policymakers using taxes and regulations to influence behavior for the sake of the public good."
"If conservatives would stop sneering for a few minutes, maybe they'd understand that 40% of U.S. adults are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention," he continued.
He then goes on to reference studies done that show a link between onset of obesity with the consumption of sugary drinks in both children and adults.
David's ultimate gripe is that Republicans dismissed their democratic colleagues and met their proposal with "smart-alecky" comments.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom, who re-introduced the tax, says he hopes to raise money to educate consumers about the dangers of sugary drinks and promote fitness. A 2-cent per fluid ounce price hike would mean an additional cost of 24 cents for a 12-ounce can of soda.
David finishes off with a bang writing, "If you've got a better idea, speak up, please. Otherwise, you're just part of the problem." Sure, David.
If you care to read the full column click here.
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