A Wellness Tax

Tough economic times sometimes call for creative financing. Unlike the economy, healthcare costs are not slowing down, and any healthcare reform is likely to break the bank.

So several states are considering innovative ways to raise the funds needed to overhaul the healthcare system. One such idea under consideration is a new tax on products that deter wellness, specifically sugary drinks like sodas, energy drinks, even teas.

Read about it here: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124208505896608647.html

The thought is that foods that can lead to obesity which can lead to health issues like diabetes should help to pay for the added costs to the system.

You might call it a "wellness tax" to the manufacturers of these products, that you can bet will get passed onto consumers.

I doubt that such a tax will lower consumption of these products, and I have no idea if it will "raise" enough money -- but I certainly give credit to the law makers for thinking outside of the box. And for thinking about wellness. Not saying that I agree with it, but I admire the creativity.

Hope this finds you well -- Jim.