NEW LIQUOR TAX GOES IN THE TANK

The State House Republican Caucus has released the following statement:

We Republicans are pleased Speaker Say agreed to the House Republican's request to refer the liquor tax increase to the Committee on Economic Development and Business Concerns, ensuring that the measure will not see the light of day. This new tax is clearly a matter of concern not only to our over-taxed population, but also to those who work in the tourist industry--the hotels, restaurants, and cabarets that serve our visitors.

The present spirits tax in dollars per gallon is already the fourth highest in the nation at $5.92 and should not be raised at this time when our local economy is still feeling the effects of September 11. The business community made clear its displeasure with the potential negative impact of this new tax. Republican leadership on this issue killed this tax.