Raising Taxes on Soft Drinks

In America today, people have a problem with their daily soft drink intake. Some households may have the refrigerator stocked up with whatever soft drinks anyone wishes to have; if it is there somebody might take advantage of it and drink too many. One can of soda might not seem like a lot, but it is becoming a big health risk in todays society. The people that realize this might believe that higher taxes should be imposed on soft drinks.

The health risk of soft drinks are bigger than most people may think. Soft drinks has increased the risk for obesity; one of the most dangerous health factors. All of the sugar content in soft drinks may lead to another dangerous health factor called diabetes. Also, it can cause an increase in stroke risks, kidney problems, and even elevated blood pressure. These health problems are something that people do not even think about when they drink sodas.

As some people believe there should be higher taxes on soft drinks, there are many more that strongly disagree with it. The people that disagree with this might think the government does not need to be involved with their personal choice; however, the government actually has ended up paying for the problem, so they do have a right to fix things. Also, people don’t realize all the health risks they are getting themselves into, so higher taxes could save some lives. Another issue is people soft drink taxes will be regressive; but it will actually be more beneficial to them, and that will direct them to a better path by getting to drink water for free.

With all the health problems, higher taxes on soft drinks will help people see what a big deal it really is, and become more educated on the health risk. If taxes are higher people may not be able to afford them, or at least cut back on them. As a result, obesity along with all the other health problems would dramatically decrease. Raising taxes on items has helped saved lives in the past; for example, taxes