Over the past few months, we've seen varying forms of proposals to tax sugar-sweetened beverages pop up in a handful of states and municipalities across the country.  Some of these proposals have been framed as a way to help solve obesity and overweight.  And some have been proposed as nothing more than a way to fill a budget gap.  We all know that taxes don't make people healthier;  a balanced diet and regular exercise do that.  Many policymakers understand that and can see through the thinly veiled attempt to disguise this money grab, which is, in part, why these proposals haven't gotten much traction.

We shared a few polls with our readers over the past few months that echo a national anti-tax sentiment.  People simply do not want to pay any more taxes right now - especially on their groceries.

The curtain has been drawn on these taxes, and they've been revealed to be little more than a sad shot at closing the gap on government over-spending.  They are all about raising money for more government spending and have nothing to do with solving public health issues.

What policymakers should do is economize their budgets, spend wisely and avoid wasteful spending.  And ultimately conduct themselves no differently than the hard-working families all across the country that are doing the same.