SAN FRANCISCOTwo in three California voters support taxing sodas and other sugary drinks, according to a poll conducted for the California Endowment.
The Field Poll, released today and based on telephone interviews with 1,002 registered voters between Nov. 14 and Dec. 5, also revealed that 74% of voters endorse a proposal that would require a warning on sugary drinks alerting consumers that such beverages contribute to diabetes, tooth decay and obesity.
The California Endowment, a statewide health foundation, said support for the warning was bipartisan, with those in favor including 80% of Democrats, 64% of Republicans and 75% of independents.
The results could provide momentum for a state bill that Sen. Bill Monning (D-Carmel) introduced last week, requiring safety warning labels on sugary drinks. The legislation would require the following disclaimer: "STATE OF CALIFORNIA SAFETY WARNING: Drinking beverages with added sugar(s) contributes to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay."
According to the California Endowment, 67% of respondents favored a proposal taxing sugary drinks and using the proceeds to fund school nutrition and physical activity programs for children. In a similar Field Poll conducted in late 2012, 68% of voters supported taxing sugary drinks, the health foundation said.
