By Editorial Board
While no one enjoys paying more money for anything, sometimes it can be a positive experience. This is the case with the new bill introduced by the Oregon legislature that would add a $49.61 tax to each barrel of beer. This would raise a one cent tax to a 15 cent tax per 12-ounce beer. But the tax is not simply an arbitrary statement against beer consumption, it is a stand against substance abuse and a move that puts Oregon on track with the rest of the nation.
First, the tax would raise approximately $300 million for drug and alcohol addiction prevention and treatment, which consumes many more millions of dollars than the tax could make a dent in. The tax also offers a lifeline to those state programs that have taken a large hit to their budget in light of the economic recession. The tax is like a toll road because those who use the road are the ones paying for its maintenance.
Second, with this bill Oregon can live up to its title as a "progressive state." Oregon currently ranks 49th among the states for the amount of its malt beverage tax, which has not been changed for 32 years.
Third, the tax comes at an opportune time because the state legislature recently considered a bill that would require verification of beer size. Bars would have to verify that they're actually serving 16-ounces of beer in a pint, so even though you're paying more money, you'll be getting the beer you paid for.
