HI SB1256

Imposes a fee of $1.28 per gallon on sugar-sweetened beverages sold by distributors in Hawaii, including bottled beverages and those produced from syrup or powder.

Establishes the obesity and chronic disease prevention special fund to receive all fee revenues, which shall fund obesity prevention programs, chronic disease prevention, nutrition initiatives, early childhood health programs, and $250,000 annually to each federally qualified community health center.

Creates the Hawaii interagency obesity prevention council within the department of health to develop a ten-year state obesity prevention strategic plan and coordinate among public agencies and private stakeholders.

Requires distributors to register with the department of health and file monthly sales reports; retailers become liable for the fee if distributors do not pay.

Exempts from the fee beverages sold for out-of-state consumption, sales between distributors, 100% fruit or vegetable juice, milk, infant formula, dietary aids, and beverages with less than 4.2 grams of added sweetener per 8 ounces.