The average American consumes seventy two gallons of soda a year, and it's one of the main causes of obesity in America. Soda is a drink that many enjoy and is so easy to find. Soda is convenient and readily available in grocery stores, vending machines, and many restaurants. The main reason why people drink them is many soft drinks contain caffeine. As we consume the drink in order to stay awake and tackle the day, we are also packing on the pounds. Consumers may not realize the health toll that soda takes on the body and our health care system. As a result, our government is considering a tax to help fund the health care reform bill and also help fight obesity. Although the bill has been tabled for now in Vermont, obesity related health care is still a problem. Obesity medical expenditures in Vermont total 183 milllion dollars each year. A few pennies on each soda sold may make up some of the budget deficit, and help combat obesity.