Ban free refills on all fountain drinks.

 

The purpose of this bill is to ban free refills on all fountain drinks at restaurants and other establishments. These

establishments must charge at least ½ of the beverage's initial price for refills, including places that charge less.

 

Obesity has been one of the most growing issues in Minnesota and the United States overall for many years. Studies from

America's Health Rankings, United Health Foundation in 2023 show that 33.3% of adults in Minnesota have a BMI of 30.0 or

higher and 34.9% have a BMI of 25 to 30. Soda is high in sugar and empty calories, contributing to weight gain, type 2

diabetes, and heart disease. The acids in soda can even lead to tooth decay or other issues such as liver and kidney

disease. According to the FDA, the Daily Value for added sugars is 50 grams for a 2,000-calorie diet. The Coca-Cola

Company states that 16 ounces of Coca-Cola has 52 grams of sugar, which is the same size as a small drink at McDonald's.

Getting a refill of that same drink would be more than double the amount of the Daily Value for added sugars. This act

will limit the amount of sugar intake, and it will also benefit the establishments it applies to. These establishments

will generate income from each refill instead of each drink. This may also create less waste from each establishment or

significant cost savings on beverages and supplies (cups, lids, straws).

 

Fountain drink: Pepsi and Coca-Cola products from fountain machines

BMI: Body mass index. A measurement of body fat based on height and weight.

Overweight: BMI of 25 to <30

Obese: BMI of 30+

Daily Value (DV): The suggested daily intake level of a nutrient for a healthy diet.

 

 

No additional funding is necessary

 

The establishment selling the product with free refills will be fined.

 

Effective 4 months upon passage.