Lawmakers scrambling to find money to fix Illinois' multi-billion dollar deficit are looking to sugary drinks as one potential source of revenue.
Taxing distributors of sodas and other sugary beverages was among the revenue-generating ideas a group of lawmakers proposed to Gov. Bruce Rauner and other leaders last week.
They're trying to finally end an epic budget impasse.
The proposal would impose a penny-per-ounce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, syrups or powders. Estimates vary on how much money the tax would collect - anywhere from $375 million to $600 million.
The state is facing a $5 billion deficit and growing.
Lawmakers are also considering raising the state income from 3.75 percent to 4.85 percent and making budget cuts as part of an overall deal contingent on Rauner getting pro-business, union-weakening reforms.
