Beverage association sues to block soda tax in Philadelphia
The American Beverage Association, along with some Philadelphia residents and businesses, filed suit Wednesday to block the city's recently enacted sweetened-beverage tax, arguing it is unconstitutional.
The lawsuit was filed in Common Pleas Court, but lawyers for the plaintiffs are asking that the state Supreme Court take up the case. They are seeking an injunction to stop the city from collecting the tax, which goes into effect Jan. 1.
"The Supreme Court will doubtlessly decide the case eventually," said Shanin Specter, the attorney representing the 10 plaintiffs. "We think it's important for the citizens of Pennsylvania, including Philadelphians, that they do so sooner rather than later."
The tax will add 1.5 cents per ounce to the cost of most sugary and diet beverages. Mayor Kenney sought the so-called soda tax as a way to pay for expanded prekindergarten and a number of other initiatives. The tax, signed into law in June, is expected to generate about $92 million annually.
Read more: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/20160915_Beverage_association_sues_to_block_soda_tax.html
