More Mitchell in Montpelier

from Fairfax Representative John Mitchell
(thanks for staying in touch, John)

As a "freshman" in Montpelier (that's what they call the new folks),
it is challenging sometimes to see issues beyond one's committee. My
committee is Health Care and it is a real learning curve for me in
that the Affordable Care Act and the Health Benefit Exchange takes
effect on Jan 1, 2014. I am certain you will see much about this in
the ensuing months and please educate yourselves on the issues at hand
when possible.
This week we began the budget process for Vermont Dept of Health
Access (DVHA) and we will continue to work on that in the weeks ahead.
We also took testimony on a bill to add one cent per ounce tax on
sugar sweetened beverages. In other words a 20 oz. soda would be $.20
more, a 2 liter bottle $.64 more, etc. The spoken intent is to combat
obesity and discourage the use of these items. It is supposed to
raise $8 million in additional tax and who knows where that will end
up. I am not in favor of additional taxes in any form and certainly
not in favor of this.
If you have any questions or concerns please
contact me at home 849-6284 or by email jmitchell@leg.state.vt.us or
mitchelljohn694@gmail.com. John Mitchell