New York State Automatic Vending Association, NYSAVA, New York soda tax, Gov. David Paterson, Mike Esposito, Prestige Services, vending machine, vending operator
ALBANY, NY -- New York State Automatic Vending Association president Mike Esposito, Prestige Services (Clifton Park, NY), is asking operators in the state to take action against Governor Paterson's proposed soda tax by sending a message directly to legislators by clicking here and following the instructions.
The Governor's proposed tax increase on sugar- sweetened beverages in his fiscal 2011 budget is similar to the one he introduced last year that did not pass. It would tax-sugar-sweetened drinks a penny per ounce, and would be levied on any beverage, including those that contain more than 10 calories per 8 fl.oz., such as soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, colas, fruit or vegetable drinks containing less than 70% natural fruit or vegetable juice, and bottled coffee or tea. Milk, milk products, milk substitutes, dietary aids, and infant formula would be exempt.
"Raising taxes on working class New Yorkers' sodas to fund the state's spending isn't right," said Esposito. "Don't raise taxes on soft drinks, when people are already cutting corners to just pay the rent and utilities. President Obama said it best during the presidential campaign: In an economy like this, the last thing we should be doing is raising taxes on the middle class."
