The association sector spent 14 percent more on lobbying in the third quarter, boosted by big increases from a few groups with an eye on legislation barreling down on them. Like the American Beverage Association. ABA spent a record $7.3 million last quarter, with the bulk of that amount—more than $5 million—going toward production and media buys for a new ad campaign. With its new coalition, Americans Against Food Taxes, ABA is aiming to quash the possibility of a soft drink tax to help pay for health care overhaul. And as it stands today, no bill seeks to tax soft drinks, perhaps a testament to the effectiveness of the print and TV campaign. The idea to tax soda came out… Read More