Open Thread: Will the Bottle Tax Increase Affect Your Shopping?

Monday marked the start of the news fiscal year, and with it an increase in the city’s "bottle tax."

The tax on containers, such as a bottle of soda or water, increased to 5 cents.

Supporters of the tax increase say it was necessary to help convince the Maryland General Assembly to pass a bill that will pay to build 15 new city public schools and renovate 30 others.

But those who opposed the plan, such as retailers and distributors, argue the tax increase would hurt city businesses and drive down the revenue collected from the tax.  Last week opponents released statistics claiming as of April the city had collected more than $1.2 million less than it had the previous fiscal year. 

Will the bottle tax increase affect your shopping? Share your thoughts in the comments.