In response to this article in the Chronicle about efforts to establish a "fat tax" on foods deemed unhealthy by the government, I sent the following letter:

re:  "A 'fat tax' for Texas?  Chew on it

In advocating a so-called "fat tax", Dr. Garson's ideas aren't just "obnoxious in Texas", they insult the very idea of individual liberty and self-determination.  While obesity and poor health choices are probably a drain on the economy, it simply isn't the purpose of a government nanny-state to coerce people into eating foods that politicians deem "healthy".

As a healthy, fit 37-year old, if I choose to drink a Coke or eat a candy bar, it shouldn't be the business of Dr. Garson, Texas, or the federal government.  But even if I weren't in good shape, do we really want the government making decisions for us about what to eat?  Would Dr. Garson also support efforts to mandate exercise?  How about government-mandated portion sizes?  It would certainly seem that once individual liberty is considered worthy of sacrifice in the name of fighting obesity, such "extreme measures" are certainly logical next steps.

I recommend that instead of using the power of government to force people into making the choices Dr. Garson wants them to make, he instead makes use of his First Amendment rights and attempts to persuade people to make those choices and leave the government to protecting our life, liberty, and property.  Chew on that idea — it's certainly more savory.

Sincerely,
Dave Smith
Houston, TX