Abstract
Weight related health issues have become a focal point for health policy as two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight or obese. California lawmakers at the state and local levels of government have taken a proactive approach to reducing this health issue by proposing a one-cent per ounce excise tax on sugar-sweetened drinks. The rationale behind such taxes is that the increased cost of these goods will reduce consumption, thus reducing weight, as people will choose less expensive, healthier food options. However, prior literature suggests that excise taxes may not have the effect anticipated, underscoring the need for further research. By developing a logistic regression analysis using California Health Interview Survey data, I examine the effect a one-cent per ounce tax will have if it were to be applied to soda at the state level in California. I find that this tax will result in a negligible reduction of overweight and obesity prevalence for a small subsection of California’s overall population. I conclude that a one-cent per ounce excise tax on sugar-sweetened drinks will not have the policy effect desired by advocates.