Philly’s soda tax
Philadelphia’s sugary drink tax is in effect as of Jan. 1, 2017
Jim Kenney’s first big move as Philly mayor is the soda tax. The 1.5-cents-per-ounce tax on sugary beverages also includes things like iced tea and sports drinks. Critics say the tax is regressive, and will hit the city’s lowest income residents hardest. The tax goes toward new initiatives like universal pre-K, but also toward the city’s fund balance.
Kenney hints at a new grocer swooping in to replace the closing Overbrook ShopRite
ShopRite owner Jeff Brown says the soda tax might force him to shut down two more stores.
Here’s everything Philly’s soda tax money is (and isn’t) paying for
You can now search expenses in the sugar-funded revenue stream via an online database.
Alan Butkovitz officially enters the race for mayor on an anti-soda tax, pro-budget accountability platform
He's running as a Democrat, so he'll challenge Mayor Kenney in the May 21 primary.
Philly’s soda tax is legal, PA Supreme Court says, but Harrisburg could still kill it
Mayor Kenney is claiming victory, but state lawmakers could still make a move.
A bill to kill the soda tax could divide Philly’s state lawmakers
The split does not follow party lines.
GOP gov candidate threatens to mow grass at ‘really disgusting’ West Philly park
Put away your mower, Scott Wagner. The city cut the grass Monday.
So far, Philly has only spent around 26% of soda tax revenue on schools
Most 💵 went to the General Fund, per City Controller.