CHICAGO – January 23, 2017 – In response to Cook County's recent passage of the "Penny per Ounce" Sweetened Beverage Tax, NAMA has reached out to the County officials to request consideration for flexibility in the implementation and administration of the tax when it is scheduled to take effect on July 1. However, the association believes that it is important that the County hears from the industry as well, particularly since many members are squarely impacted by the obligations for compliance. Accordingly, NAMA drafted a letter to be sent to Cook County on the industry's behalf with many area industry members mentioned on the signature line.

NAMA has also notified area operators that there is a public hearing taking place this Friday, January 27 at the Cook County Building, 2 – 3:30 p.m. It is the second of two such hearings about the sweetened beverage tax, the first of which was held earlier this month.

It is an opportunity for companies – retailers, manufacturers and beverage bottlers – as well as associations to seek clarity on the implementation of the tax.