PROPOSED LIQUOR LAW

Reader opposes I-1100, I-1105

I would like to point out some additional reasons why voters should oppose Initiatives 1100 and 1105 that promote liquor privatization. In addition to harming much of the $4 billion Washington wine industry, the Washington State craft brewers also know the consequences of these Initiatives and have joined the opposition.

There are significant social consequences if 1100 and 1105 pass. The number of hard liquor outlets will go from 315 to as many as 5000. Because corporations that sell liquor wrote the Initiatives, Washington would become the least regulated state in the nation for hard liquor sales. The odds of a minor making an illegal purchase will go from 1 in 20 to 1 in 4. Alcohol-related traffic problems such as drunk driving will increase significantly. Incidences of domestic violence will go up as alcohol is often to blame.

Current revenue now paid to cities and counties will flow into the pockets of big box stores and out-of-state distillers, with new taxes as the only option to protect essential services. Washington State liquor prices are high due to State and Federal taxes. These will not change under the proposed Initiatives. With rare exceptions, prices will likely be higher due to distribution costs and possible tax increases to offset revenue loss.

After more than 75 years in business, the Washington State Liquor Control Board has developed a remarkably efficient liquor distribution system. They are able to service the entire state from one warehouse that is highly automated. Can it be improved? Of course and ongoing efforts to do so are happening on a daily basis.

There are far too many reasons to reject 1100 and 1105 so I urge you to vote no.

Kevin Danby

Ephrata