In Illinois, state legislators are proposing a beverage tax that would end up hurting those who can least afford it in an attempt to fill their budget hole. A recent op-ed by the Rockford Register Star notes that the proposed tax is a misguided way to address the state’s budget problems.

Unlike an income tax, which is determined directly by people’s salary and assets, taxes on beverages, “disproportionately hurt poor people and those on fixed incomes.”

Legislators, who are hoping for this quick solution to their budget issues, need to consider the consequences this type of tax will have on all Illinoisans.

“Illinois needs creative solutions to fix its fiscal woes. A soda tax is neither creative nor is it a solution.”