CO SB274

Reinstates the state sales and use tax exemption for soft drinks, effective July 1, 2016, reversing a 2010 repeal of the exemption.

Defines "soft drinks" as nonalcoholic beverages containing natural or artificial sweeteners, excluding beverages with milk products, soy, rice, or greater than 50% vegetable or fruit juice.

Makes legislative findings that taxing soft drinks while exempting other food and beverages is arbitrary, unfair, and increases costs for working families and retailers.

Removes sales tax requirements for candy and soft drinks sold through vending machines, returning them to tax-exempt status after May 1, 2010 taxing date.

Subject to voter referendum if a petition is filed within 90 days after legislative adjournment; if challenged, would require approval at the November 2016 general election to take effect.