Fattening Government Coffers

Fattening Government Coffers

Anyone who hasn’t heard plenty about the “fiscal cliff” has probably been living on a deserted island somewhere, as that’s been the pet phrase being bandied about Washington D.C. for months, and refers to the numerous major fiscal events that will happen simultaneously as we say goodbye to 2012 and usher in 2013, such as the expiration of several tax relief provisions, as well as deep federal program cuts. Many worry that the proposed fiscal belt tightening for 2013 will put a strangle hold on an already choking economy. This “fiscal cliff” scenario brings the “critters out of the woodwork”, as Grandma used to say. Food activists are jumping at the opportunity it presents them to get certain pet projects passed, such as the taxation of sodas and junk food, and they certainly have their supporters in the government arena. Several lawmakers see the taxing of junk food as an opportunity to “fatten up” government coffers, and if it happens to make even the tiniest of dents in the battle of the bulge, all the better. It’s no surprise though that the proposal of junk food and soda taxes is very unpopular with the American consumer, but is it a way to promote a healthy diet? Probably not. Is it a way for government to make a quick buck? Probably so.  

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