Utah State Representative Craig Frank has proposed that caffeine be taxed as a way to increase state revenue and discourage its intake, for which he claims to have seen related research that implies caffeine “can cause spontaneous abortion, psychological abnormalities and other disorders.”

Really? I find that hard to believe but even if that were the case shouldn’t it be up to each individual whether or not they consume such a substance?

Some fear such a proposal might garner some support as 60-70% of Utah’s population identifies with the Mormon Church, which advises against the use of “hot drinks”, which coffee, tea and other caffeine-laden beverages are often grouped (see Wiki’s link here). No disrespect is meant to those affiliated with this religion or any other religion. To each his or her own. But the important distinction to be made is whether views are communicated to others peacefully (via education and persuasion) or through the force of the State (regardless of claims of it being “for their own good”). Anything that falls in the latter category is not to commended.

Though it’s not all-too-surprising to see yet another politician seek to use the force of government to grow their spheres under the auspices of “helping people”, it is a bit curious to see that the person that suggested such a proposal has twice been dubbed a “Friend of the Utah Taxpayer.”

If you care to let Craig know your thoughts hit him up via the contact info below:

cfrank@utah.gov

Frank Craig
10808 La Costa
Cedar Hills, UT  84062

Hm: 801-785-6652
Wk: 801-362-3171
Cl: 801-362-3171

And for more on the impact of nanny state regulations check out The Five Dumbest Product Bans by CEI scholar Eli Lehrer and then check out the Who Owns You? intel overview on Bureaucrash Social. And if you care to hash out just how much, if at all, the government should regulate caffeine and other substances why not strike up a conversation in the chat area or start a blog or forum post?