The Oregon House Behavioral Health Committee passed amended HB 3377, which still includes predetermined outcomes to increase prices for consumers that would harm local beer, wine, cider and spirits jobs
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Beverage Alliance released the following statement after the House Behavioral Health Committee passed an amendment to HB 3377 convening a task force charged with increasing the cost of beverages for Oregon consumers:
“As local business owners and residents, brewers, winemakers, cidermakers, distillers, and distributors, we care deeply about our communities. That’s why we invest and create so many jobs here in Oregon. Without question, more needs to be done to address addiction and we stand ready and willing to work with lawmakers and stakeholders on these issues.”
“Alcohol is the third largest source of revenue for the state. But for some reason, less than 1% of Oregon’s budget goes to alcohol treatment and only 3.5% of existing beer, wine and spirits revenue are dedicated to addiction recovery. Before raising taxes on Oregon’s local breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries, politicians need to deeply examine the current system and why existing dollars are not being spent on these programs so resources can be directed where they are most needed. However, starting the process with the false assumption that consumers need to pay significantly more is out of step with the views of the vast majority of Oregonians.”
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About the Oregon Beverage Alliance
The Oregon Beverage Alliance is made up of local brewers, winemakers, cidermakers, distillers and their supply and hospitality partners creating hundreds of thousands of jobs. Learn more: www.DontTaxMyDrink.org
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