LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – A Nebraska lawmaker wants to end a state sales tax exemption on soda pop and energy drinks and use the money to fight childhood obesity.
State Sen. Bill Avery of Lincoln introduced a measure (LB753) Wednesday that would channel the tax revenue into state-based efforts to promote heath. The bill would allocate $100,000 for a statewide database to monitor student obesity and fitness.
Some of the money would go to the state Department of Education to improve school meal programs and support school district wellness coordinators.
Avery introduced the bill on the first day of an expected 60-day legislative session.