Soda Tax

Government

Soda tax-funded programs largely safe, despite lower pandemic revenue

When Seattle started taxing soda and sugary drinks in 2018, part of the intent was to reduce consumption. The good news: people drank less soda. The bad news: it meant reduced funds for programs that help vulnerable communities. As the city council prepares to vote on the 2023 budget, it made some changes to avoid deep cuts. But it’s a short-term fix.

Health

Seattle's low income communities benefit from soda tax revenue, UW study says

Seattle’s soda tax has been effective in reducing consumption of sugary drinks. Turns out, money from the tax also helps low income communities, according to a University of Washington study.

Health

Seattle soda tax works in curbing consumption, study says

Sales of soda and other sweetened beverages have gone down by 22% since Seattle imposed a tax on them in January 2018. And for the most part, they've stayed down.

Health

More Seattleites are using food banks, but funding isn't keeping up

As Seattle’s median income rises, so has demand for food banks.

Government

Seattle City Council, mayor at odds over soda tax money

Revenue from Seattle’s soda tax is higher than anticipated. Now the mayor and the City Council have slightly different ideas on what to do with the extra money.

Health

Seattle's soda tax revenue may pay for fresh veggies

Crack open a pineapple Fanta and catch up on this week's news

If you want to avoid a new tax on soda, load up now. You'll pay more when Seattle's new sugary drinks tax kicks in on January 1. Also new on New Year's...