AR SB1080

Establishes the Legislative Task Force on the Taxation of Nonalcoholic Beverages composed of 10 members appointed by the Senate President Pro Tempore and House Speaker, plus 3 ex-officio members (Arkansas Hospitality Association Executive Director, UAMS Chancellor or designee, and Department of Human Services Director or designee).

Task force includes 2 Senate members and 2 House members (one from each serving as cochair), one soft drink industry wholesaler, two fast food restaurant operators, two full-service restaurant operators, one retail chain representative, and one representative of an organization receiving funds from nonalcoholic beverage taxes.

Requires the task force to conduct a detailed study of wholesale taxes on nonalcoholic beverages in Arkansas, including taxes under the Arkansas Soft Drink Tax Act (§ 26-57-901 et seq.), and gather information from appropriate sources.

Task force must submit written findings and recommendations to the Governor, Senate President Pro Tempore, and House Speaker on or before September 1, 2014.

Task force expires on January 1, 2015; legislative members receive per diem and mileage reimbursement for meetings and receive staff support from the Bureau of Legislative Research.