S 1861 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act to promote healthy alternatives to sugary drinks

This bill establishes a new tax on bottled sugary drinks sold in Massachusetts to encourage consumers to choose healthier beverage options. The legislation defines specific terms such as "sugary drink," "sugar," and "non-nutritive sweetener" to determine which products are subject to the tax, while explicitly exempting milk, natural juices, and beverages for medical use. Revenue generated from this tax will be directed to the state's Health Promotion Fund to support public health initiatives. The law applies to distributors, retailers, and manufacturers selling these products within the Commonwealth.
Bill status passed both 4 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Mar 2024
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Jul 17, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Mar 21, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Revenue
upper
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors

Sponsors