Berkeley Measure Z

The ballot title for Measure Z is as follows:

“Shall the measure to remove the current January 1, 2027 expiration date and extend until ended by voters the general tax on the distribution of sugary drinks and sweeteners, paid by distributors at the rate of 1(cents sign) per fluid ounce, previously approved by voters in 2014, with exceptions for small retailers, milk products, and baby formula, raising approximately $1,150,000 per year for general government use, be adopted?"

Berkeley’s 2014 soda tax will be back on the ballot this November as Measure Z, with the Berkeley City Council seeking to renew the tax indefinitely before it expires at the start of 2027.

Approved by more than 76% of voters in 2014, the original Measure D implemented a 1-cent-per-ounce excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, or SSBs. Within three years, SSB consumption dropped by 52%, while water consumption rose by 29%, according to a press release issued last week by Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín’s office.

The tax generates approximately $1.15 million annually, funding nutritional, cooking and gardening programs, as well as community outreach programs that promote healthier lifestyles.