In Nebraska, there’s a proposed bill known as LB170 that seeks to change tax laws by removing sales tax exemptions for candy and soft drinks. Currently, these items aren’t taxed because they’re considered non-prepared food and groceries. If this bill passes, it would mean new taxes on these popular snacks and drinks.

As a teenagers, this proposal feels very personal. Many teens and preteens head to the store or gas station after school to grab a quick snack, usually candy or a soda. These treats are consistently in our daily routines, something we enjoy during breaks or while hanging out. We buy them several times a week, using our allowances or money from part-time jobs.

If the prices go up because of a new tax, it could really change our habits. For example, if your favorite soda suddenly costs 10% more, you might think twice before buying it. The same goes for choosing candy over other types of snacks. As teenagers, we don’t have tons of money to throw around, so even a small price hike on candy and soda is a big deal for us. It’s not just about the extra cost; it’s about how we have to rethink our choices and maybe even give up little joys that make our day better.

Ultimately, LB170 seems like a real downer for us teens. It’s not just about a few extra cents on candy and soda; it’s about how these small changes can mess with our daily routine. We’re still learning to handle our money, and this bill could make enjoying simple treats way more complicated. Plus, it might leave local stores struggling if we cut back on our purchases.

Instead of targeting the things we love, maybe lawmakers should think about other ways to address financial issues without putting more pressure on young consumers. We need solutions that consider the impact on our lives and our communities. It’s time for decision-makers to really listen to how these policies affect us and come up with alternatives that make sense for everyone.