Proposed soda tax would raise $1.7 billion statewide for schools and children's health programs

The San Jose Mercury reports:

Sipping soda may not help your waistline. But taxing it could do wonders for schools' bottom line.

In the Peninsula and South Bay, a tax could mean more than $86 million to tackle the epidemic of childhood obesity -- a welcomed infusion of money during a time of harsh budget cuts.

A bill by Assemblyman Bill Monning, D-Carmel, would levy a tax on any beverage with added caloric sweeteners, such as soda pop, sweet teas and sports drinks. AB 669 proposes a tax of 1 cent per fluid ounce, which would raise an estimated $1.7 billion annually in California -- most of it going toward health-related programs for children.

San Mateo County would see $22.6 million, while Santa Clara County would receive $63.5 million, according to a statewide study released Thursday by the nonprofit California Center for Public Health Advocacy.

It's for the children , but by an amazing coincidence teachers' salaries and pensions will also benefit. Got that?