As the Massachusetts Package Store Owners Association gathers for its annual meeting today in Marlborough, the Department of Revenue released figures showing that alcohol sales have increased more than 4 percent in the first quarter of the state’s fiscal year, from July-September.
“The good news-bad news story for the liquor industry is that business is up — but any reason people have to vote for Question 1 has gone out the window,” said Vic DiGravio, co-chair of the Committee Against Repeal of the Alcohol Sales Tax.
The alcohol tax brings in approximately $110 million a year, and every dollar goes to the Substance Abuse Treatment Fund for addiction prevention, treatment and recovery services.
“As an association of college presidents, AICUM recognizes that alcohol abuse is a major public health concern in our communities and on college campuses across the country. Studies have shown that higher alcohol costs act as a deterrent to underage drinking. ” AICUM said in a statement announcing its support for the No on Question 1 campaign.
