A collection of groups fighting alcohol abuse in Missouri is proposing a two-cent a drink increase in the taxes for alcohol. Missouri’s Alcohol Impact Coaltion has released a poll of 500 registered voters in the state claiming that two-thirds of voters would approve the tax increase if it is sent to the polls. The coaltion estimates $44-Million for alcohol education and treatment programs would be raised if the tax was approved. Dan Duncan with the coalition says the liquor industry in the state could be the biggest roadblock to passing the measure in the legislature and putting it to a vote of the people. In fact, one member of the coalition says Missouri lawmakers are the best Legislature money can buy. Leaders in the House and Senate, as well as the Governor, have said they don’t want any new taxes this year. The coalition says a bill proposing the increase is waiting for action in the House.
