Scherer Voices Opposition to Proposed Beverage Tax

DECATUR, Ill. –State Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, is continuing to speak out against tax increases on working families by joining Democrats and Republicans alike in opposition to plans to force a new tax on soft drinks in Illinois.

“Increasing beverage taxes would hurt working families by forcing them to pay more at grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants,” Scherer said. “Additionally, a beverage tax would be damaging to businesses in the beverage industry and put jobs at risk.”

Scherer is working with a bipartisan group of lawmakers to oppose efforts to impose a new tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, including soda, juice drinks, sports drinks, and tea.  Opponents to the proposal argue the increased tax would disproportionally impact middle-class families and many local businesses in Central and Southern Illinois.  Scherer voiced her opposition to simply raising taxes on the middle-class as the solution to the state’s challenges, and instead is urging lawmakers to prioritize creating more jobs and economic growth.

“I have voted against attempts to increase costs for working families time and time again, and I stand in firm opposition to this proposed tax,” said Scherer. “Any real solution to the state budget must not burden residents who are already struggling and must focus on creating jobs.”

For more information, please contact Scherer’s constituent service office at 217-877-9636 or by email at StateRepSue@gmail.com. Scherer represents the 96th District, which includes portions of Christian, Macon and Sangamon counties.