Plan To Raise Michigan Beer Tax Presented In Lansing

LANSING (WWJ) - Beer could soon cost a little bit more in Michigan under a proposed 5 cent tax hike.

WWJ Lansing Bureau Chief Tim Skubick reports there's a proposal before the Legislature to raise the beer tax — which is currently at 1.9 cents — to 6.9 cents per hoppy beverage purchased in our state.

"The sponsors of this say that this is a healthy thing for Michigan to do," Skubick said, following a news conference Wednesday. "First of all it's obvious that Michigan loves its beer, but it results in all sorts of social problems including alcoholism and the like."

Under the plan, the additional money collected — an estimated $60 million — would go towards funding substance abuse programs.

Skubick is telling beer drinkers not to panic, however, as it's largely expected that the proposal will fall flat.

"I talked earlier this morning to the chair of the House tax policy committee, Jeff Farrington of Macomb County. He says basically, no way Jose. This legislation, if it comes to his committee it will be DOA," Skubick said.

The last time the beer tax was raised in Michigan was about 50 years ago.

Michigan Freedom Fund Executive Director Tony Daunt has said he hopes Lansing puts this terrible bill on ice.