S.B. 1085 Summary

• Imposes a fee of $1.28 per gallon on all sugar-sweetened beverages sold in Hawaii, including bottled beverages and beverages produced from syrup or powder, effective upon adoption of administrative rules.

• Establishes the "obesity and chronic disease prevention special fund" to receive 100% of collected fees, with revenues dedicated to obesity prevention programs, chronic disease prevention, nutrition education, physical activity initiatives, early childhood health programs, and $250,000 annually per federally qualified community health center for obesity-related preventative services.

• Creates the Hawaii Interagency Obesity Prevention Council chaired by the Director of Health to develop a ten-year state obesity prevention strategic plan and coordinate obesity prevention efforts across government agencies and private stakeholders.

• Requires distributors to register with the Department of Health, submit monthly sales reports, and maintain records; retailers are liable for unpaid fees if distributors do not pay.

• Exempts beverages sold for out-of-state consumption, 100% fruit or vegetable juices without added sweeteners, milk, infant formula, dietary aids, and beverages with less than 4.2 grams of added sweetener per 8 ounces.