Groups push new tax on soda

MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) A coalition of health care and consumer groups is renewing its call for a new tax on soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages following a new study that links sugar consumption to health problems. Peter Sterling of the Alliance for a Healthier Vermont says the tax raise about $27 million a year. He tells Vermont Public Radio the money would go toward lowering the costs of certain health care programs, subsidizing the cost of fruits and vegetables for low-income residents and funding a public education campaign on the dangers of obesity. Vermont Grocers Association Executive Director Jim Harrison says a new tax won't discourage soda consumption. He said such a tax is regressive and would send commerce across the border to neighboring states that don't have the tax.