Taxes - Sugary Beverage Distributor Tax (For Our Kids Act)

HB 1469 imposes a tax on distributors of sugary beverages, syrups, and powders. The revenue generated will fund Maryland's school meal programs, specifically the State Free Feeding Program and the Maryland Meals for Achievement In-Classroom Breakfast Program, through the new "Healthy School Meals for All Fund." This tax replaces existing provisions in Maryland's education and tax codes, with all collected funds directed exclusively to these school nutrition initiatives. The bill directly affects beverage distributors by requiring them to pay the tax, while benefiting public schools through guaranteed funding for student meals.