Assemblyman Bill Monning says the bill, which proposed a one-cent-per-ounce tax on sodas, energy drinks, and sweet teas, is ultimately aimed at discouraging consumption. “Science shows very clearly that the increased consumption in calories, particularly in young people, can be directly traced in large measure to increased consumption of sugary beverages,” Monning said. Monning acknowledges he likely cannot get the two-thirds majority needed to pass the tax in the current highly-polarized political environment. Critics contend the bill would hurt beverage companies and insist that it’s up to kids and their parents to decide what to drink.