Philly movie theaters playing anti-soda tax ads

Movie theaters around Philadelphia are running anti-soda tax trailers before films in an effort to kill Mayor Kenney's proposed soda tax.

The three cent per-ounce tax on sugary-sweetened beverages would be levied on the distributor but movie theater owners say they would pass the increase on to moviegoers thirsty for those already pricey fountain drinks.

Monday the president of the National Association of Theater Owners of PA said cinemas would voluntarily air the spots, created by the "No Philly Grocery Tax," coalition and paid for by the American Beverage Association.

"As the trade association representing 10 major Philadelphia movie theaters, we know that thousands of people from all corners of the city would have to pay more to see their favorite films because of this tax," said Gina DiSanto, President of the National Association of Theater Owners of Pennsylvania in a release. "This tax will hit movie goers from Old City art houses to North Philadelphia megaplexes and will prevent families from spending quality time together doing something they love."

The American Beverage Association has spent $1.5 million to air the ad on radio and TV.

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