New Sin Tax Proposed + Colorado Breweries Are Opposed to It

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of mom and pop breweries across the state of Colorado were forced to close, and now lawmakers are proposing a new fee to be placed on alcohol sales that some brewers that survived the pandemic are worried could hurt business.

What is the Newly Proposed Fee on Colorado Alcohol Sales?

The bill, which was introduced by Colorado Representative Jamie Jackson of Arapahoe County, would require businesses that sell alcohol to pay an additional fee per liter or gallon, depending on the product. These fees would be, at most, 35 cents per liter of liquor sold, seven cents per liter of wine sold, and five cents per gallon of beer sold.

Where Would the Money from Proposed Colorado Alcohol Fees Go?

The bill was designed to fund substance use prevention and treatment programs for Colorado residents struggling with alcohol dependency or other kinds of substance abuse. These programs would include things like detox, inpatient care, and other substance use prevention programs.

What Are the Arguments For the Colorado Bill?

Representative Jackson argued that because Colorado has some of the lowest alcohol tax rates in the nation, it’s well-documented that these types of businesses will still be able to thrive.

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Jackson also stated that the bill “isn’t anti-business, it’s pro-workforce and pro-community safety.”

What Are the Arguments Against the Colorado Bill?

When asked about the proposed new fees, the Colorado Brewers Guild pointed out that nearly 200 breweries were forced out of business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and if passed, the new law would put further strain on already struggling businesses in the industry.

If passed, the law would go into effect next August.

Read More: New Colorado Laws to Benefit Renters + Mental Health

Check out the full story from KDVR FOX 31 News here.