Gym Tax???

www.DrWeigh.com

I just heard some very disturbing news. Governor Paterson and the New York Legislature are considering imposing a sales tax on health club dues and services (including personal training) to make up for New York State's budget deficit. How shortsighted is that thinking? Are they not aware that we are in the midst of an obesity epidemic? One out of every three children in this country is either overweight or obese. Do they know how much money is spent on obesity-related health expenses in this country? More than 10 million American children are overweight, leading to an annual health-related cost of 117 billion dollars. Studies show that obesity-related health costs will total 860 billion dollars by 2030. Is this really the wisest way to save money?

Governor Paterson has talked extensively about the medical and economic importance of healthy lifestyles and is proposing an "obesity tax" on non-diet, sugary sodas and advocating a "Healthier New York". Therefore a tax on health clubs is directly in opposition to this goal. The State should be encouraging, not discouraging, memberships to health clubs to stem the obesity epidemic and promote good health.

Here's how you can help - visit HealthClubs.com today to quickly and easily tell your lawmakers to oppose this proposed tax.Thanks in advance for participating. I will update you as the details unfold.

* Special thanks to LIFT gym for providing the link to HealthClubs.com.