MONTPELIER, Vt. -
For nearly a decade Pam Trag has co-owned Quality Market in Barre, Vermont.
But now she's fearful another ten years is at risk.
"It means jobs if this goes forward," said Trag.
The reason for Trag's concerns stems from a sugar-sweetened drink Vermont lawmakers are considering.
"I lose the diapers, the milk, the bread all the other sales," said Trag.
The proposal would add a cent per ounce of any drink with sugar.
That doesn't sound like much, but it does add up.
For example, a 12-ounce can would cost an extra 12 cents.
Two-liter bottle, 68 cents
And a 24-pack of cans, nearly three more dollars.
Higher prices that presents many questions for owners.
On Wednesday, the Vermont Grocer's Association held a news conference about the bill.
"When do we stop telling people what to do with their lives?" said State Rep. Ronald Hubert.
The group has collected more than 6,000 signatures from people against the idea, which is currently being discussed in the house.
"We'll see where it goes from there," said State Rep. Shap Smith.
Proponents say this legislation would bring in millions and get people to make healthier choices.
But for Trag it's not losing pounds she's worried about, it's her business.
"There's a lot of pieces and a lot of moving parts and a lot of concerns that I have," said Trag.
The house health care committee is taking testimony on the bill Wednesday.
Speaker Shap Smith wouldn't tell us whether he supports it, or if it will come up for a vote in the house.
