Crespo Supports Measure to Repeal Cook County Beverage Tax

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, is fighting to repeal the Cook County beverage tax by supporting a measure to eliminate the county’s new tax on fruit juices, flavored waters and sodas, and prohibit counties from implementing similar taxes in the future.

“Hard-working families in my district are being taxed too much, and this new tax puts an unnecessary burden on working families,” Crespo said. “These are everyday purchases that families should not be punished for making. Cook County has made a mistake, and repealing this tax will provide relief to working families.”

Crespo is working to give Cook County residents a break from high taxes and level the playing field for local businesses by supporting House Bill 4083. This legislation eliminates Cook County’s “penny-per-ounce” tax on sweetened beverages, which even raises taxes on some orange juice and vegetable juices, and some flavored waters and diet sodas. Crespo’s bill would also prohibit any local government in Illinois from implementing such taxes in the future.

“Not only will this tax negatively affect families, but it will also become burdensome for small businesses in Cook County,” Crespo said. “This tax will result in a decrease in sales, and put businesses in jeopardy. If they cannot afford to operate in Cook County, there is the possibility that they will move out of the area. We should be doing everything we can to support and encourage businesses in Cook County, not deterring it.”