CHICAGO, IL (Sept. 11, 2017) – The Cook County Board of Commissioners plans to consider Wednesday, Sept. 13, whether to repeal the county’s widely unpopular new sweetened beverages tax.

Chicago residents face up to five different taxes on soda alone, on top of at least 30 other taxes and fees. So it’s not surprising that nearly 90 percent of Cook County residents disapprove of the tax. Chicago residents face one of the highest overall tax burdens in the nation.

To repeal the tax, nine commissioners must vote in favor. If Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle vetoed a repeal, 11 commissioners would need to vote in favor for an override.

Chris Lentino, manager of Chicago outreach at the Illinois Policy Institute, is available to weigh in on why a vote to repeal is the right choice for taxpayers.

For bookings or interviews, contact: Melanie Krakauer, media@illinoispolicy.org or (312) 607-4977