Illinois doctors press for tax on sugary beverages

Pediatric chiefs of nine hospitals in Illinois have joined forces to urge a tax on sugar-sweetened drinks.

In a guest editorial sent to news media in Illinois, the doctors say a one-cent-per-ounce tax nationwide could generate $14 billion dollars yearly.

That money could go toward programs to boost the number of pediatricians, and increase access to underserved families.

But the doctors also say the tax could improve kids' health by reducing calories. They cite data showing that the average American child drinks 172 calories of sodas or other sugary drinks everyday.

The editorial is signed by doctors from hospitals in Chicago and suburbs, Rockford, Peoria and Springfield.