Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

___________________________________________

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Higher Taxes On Wine May Result From Health-Care Reform
Senate committee proposes higher excise taxes on alcohol; one of several ideas on table

Mitch Frank
June 9,2009

President Barack Obama is mounting a full-court press on Congress to pass comprehensive health-care reform this year, which means he's got a lot of negotiating to do with Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill. And one of the biggest unanswered questions about reform is how the government will pay for the program, estimated to cost $1.2 trillion over the next decade.

Wine, beer and spirits producers are nervous over the proposal. In May the Senate Finance Committee issued a report on various proposals to pay for reform. One idea was titled "lifestyle tax proposals." It proposed raising federal excise taxes on alcohol, as well as introducing a tax on sodas and other sweetened drinks. The report suggests the tax increases would "promote wellness and healthy choices, and curb activities that increase overall health care costs." . . . . . .

______________________________________________
at