Maryland is considering a new tax on sugary drinks, but not everyone is happy about it. While the state believes it’s a good way to fix its budget issues and encourage healthier habits, many shoppers, especially near the state’s borders, say they will simply cross into neighboring states like Pennsylvania to avoid paying more.
Shoppers React: Will They Change Where They Buy?
Robyn Shaber, a shopper at ShopRite in Cardiff, Harford County, was spotted with her grandson and a cart full of Coca-Cola and Mountain Dew bottles—24 bottles to be exact.
“This will only last a couple of days,” she shared. Her husband is a big soda drinker. Even though the store offers deals like two packs for $12 and two more for $10, she’s noticed the prices going up. If Maryland’s proposed sugary drink tax becomes law, she plans to stop buying soda there and will instead shop in Pennsylvania, where she lives and drinks are cheaper.
The Proposed Tax: What’s It About?
Maryland lawmakers are debating a 2-cent-per-ounce excise tax on distributors of sugary beverages. This includes drinks with added sugars or artificial sweeteners—think sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened teas. However, the tax won’t apply to natural fruit juices, milk, infant formulas, medical drinks, or alcoholic beverages.
The bill, supported by Delegates Emily Shetty and Joseline Peña-Melnyk, aims to:
- Generate $500 million in revenue by fiscal year 2027.
- Use nearly half the revenue for healthy school meals and child care scholarships.
- Support public health by reducing sugary drink consumption.
Advocates Say It’s About Health & Budget
“This bill is a public health bill,” Delegate Shetty said during a hearing. “It will decrease sweetened beverage consumption while investing in universal school meals for children.”
Some experts agree. JP Krahel, an accounting professor at Loyola University, pointed out that though no one likes higher taxes, this one might help long-term. “A small tax on each of us may lead to large benefits,” he explained. It could improve public health and help Maryland fill its multi-billion dollar budget gap.
Stephanie Joseph, a Silver Spring resident, is in favor of the bill. While shopping with her two children, she said, “It’s a tight budget, and it’s a healthy way to help Marylanders. I rarely buy sodas, mainly just for parties.”
But Opponents Say It’s a Burden on Families & Businesses
Many store owners and consumers are against the bill. Critics have dubbed it the “Slush Tax.”
House Republicans believe it’s just another burden on hardworking families and small businesses.
Joe Wong, the manager of Brookville Market in Chevy Chase, says he doesn’t think the tax will impact sales in wealthier areas. “If people want to buy a product, they’re not going to stop because of a 2-cent tax,” he said.
But for stores near state borders, the impact could be bigger. Consumers like Robyn Shaber and others living close to Pennsylvania, Delaware, or Virginia can simply cross the state line to avoid paying the extra cost.
Judy Lee, from Susquehanna Trails in York County, Pennsylvania, already shops between Maryland and Pennsylvania for the best prices. “Gas is cheaper in Maryland, vape cartridges are cheaper in Pennsylvania, and now soda will be another thing to compare,” she said. “I’m just tired of being taxed every which way.”
Ron Hash, another Pennsylvania resident who frequently shops in Maryland, shared the same frustration. “You’ve got to live within your means, and the government should too. They act like tax money will never stop flowing.”
Will This Tax Push People to Shop Elsewhere?
Daraius Irani, chief economist at Towson University, believes this tax could hit Maryland retailers hard. Consumers living close to the border may prefer shopping in other states where drinks are cheaper. Plus, people from lower-income communities might be affected more since they might not have the means to travel to other states but will still have to pay the higher prices.
“This could create a bigger financial burden for those who already have fewer choices,” Irani added.
What’s Next?
As the debate continues, Maryland lawmakers are weighing the pros and cons of the sugary drink tax. On one side, supporters highlight public health and budget fixes. On the other side, opponents stress the impact on families, small businesses, and shoppers who live near other states.
One thing is certain—whether the bill passes or not, it’s already sparking strong reactions from Maryland residents and neighboring communities.
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