Rhode Island cardiologist Steven Fera told a legislative committee reviewing the proposal Tuesday that taxing sugary drinks would be an effective way of targeting the growing public health threat of obesity. Fera, speaking on behalf of the American Heart Association, said sugary drinks are a leading contributor to excessive sugar consumption by children and adults.

"I don't see this bill as attacking the beverage industry," he said. "It's not the industry, it's the product. There are a lot of causes of obesity, but we have to target the things we can change. If we don't, our health care costs are going to be unmanageable."

But beverage company leaders said it's wrong to make one industry pay for America's dietary problems, especially as drink companies expand their offerings of sugar-free and reduced calorie drinks. They were joined Tuesday by convenience store owners and restaurant industry leaders who also oppose the tax, which would be levied at the wholesale or distribution level.

"This bill will impact jobs within our industry," said Steven Perrelli, general manager of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Southeastern New England Inc. "Moderation is the only answer. Taxation is not the answer."

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Edith Ajello, D-Providence, who said revenue from the tax would be dedicated to public health programs.

The measure faces significant obstacles in the General Assembly where the state's economy and this fall's elections are likely to dampen enthusiasm for any wide-ranging tax increase. Still, lawmakers vowed to give the tax proposal a thorough vetting. It has not been scheduled for a vote.

"We do understand there are jobs involved," said Rep. Larry Valencia, D-Richmond. "We'll weigh all the factors."