Cook County's penny-per-ounce tax on sweetened beverages goes into effect on July 1, 2017.

The cost of a 2-liter bottle of soda would increase $0.68 and a six-pack of soda would increase $0.72.

A beverage is classified as sweetened if it contains either sugar or artificial sweetener. The tax includes carbonated soft drinks, fruit beverages (except 100% fruit juice), sports drinks and energy drinks.

The people hurt most are middle- and working-class Cook County residents who already face some of the highest property and sales taxes in the nation. Instead of pushing regressive taxes onto already cash-strapped Cook County residents, the Cook County Board should figure out real solutions to the county’s fiscal woes instead of taking more money from the people who can least afford it. 

Cook County already has one of the highest sales taxes in Illinois.  Why should us residents of Cook County have to pay this ridiculous tax on beverages!! Please sign the petition and let them know how you feel about this tax!! Please sign, share, spread all over the internet.  Let the voice of the people of Cook County be heard!!!