A soda tax has been talked about for a long time, and as one group scoffs at its necessity, another jumps to the forefront waving new research. The back-and-forth approach to regulation and what is a government issue v. a personal, private decision remains a hot burner issue.

The Feds seem to be stepping out of the equation with all the other topics floating around, but some of the states seem ready to take up the cause as a way to boost their declining revenues. The formula is a tax fitted to the number of ounces of the drink. Imagine the situation at any of the fast food outlets and then multiply the chaos by the outrage.

Whether you’re talking a penny an ounce tax or the very high 18% figure that is being mentioned the concern is the same. We are a country in the out-of-control department about weight gain, obesity, and increases in diabetes. Those being the primary reasons behind the reemergence of the beverage tax. Some in support of the concept talk about overall economic savings.

The real issue that cannot be lost in the steam roll is who makes the decision about what to eat and drink. The economy is still in bad shape with job losses and high overall unemployment. Inexpensive food and drink options help many people stave off hunger. This is the reality of the times. Fix one issue at a time. One more tax is not the way to go.

Pennies count no matter the size of the beverage.