New California Alcohol Tax is Considered

California Alcohol Tax

California Alcohol Tax

With California is facing a $14 billion budget deficit, politicians and public policy groups are looking for ways to make up for the shortfall. One proposal is to increase the tax on distilled liquor, beer and wine.

The Marin Institute, an alcohol industry watch-dog, is one of the major proponents of this plan. According to Bruce Livingston, the group’s executive director, “Raising the alcohol tax for the first time in 16 years is a commonsense and fiscally responsible option to help close the budget gap. A simple 25 cents per drink increase would generate almost $3 billion in revenue.”

This potential revenue stream would make up about 20% of California’s budget deficit. While the plan sounds like it would make good financial sense for the state, it would essentially amount to a sin tax for all alcohol consumers, including the vast majority that drinks responsibly.

Written by: Ben Bicais on Tuesday, January 15 2008


Recent Discussion – New California Alcohol Tax is Considered

There aren't any comments about New California Alcohol Tax is Considered yet.
Be the first to comment!

Join the discussion

Sign in to post a comment.

Not a member yet?

Sign up for free! or learn more



Join the community

If you’re interested in California wine, our community is perfect for you!

Learn more or Sign up for free!

About Calwineries

Ben Bicais Hello, my name is Ben Bicais, and I would like to personally welcome you to Calwineries. Growing up in the Napa Valley... Find out more.

Search the site