As Washington State's privatization transition unfolds, the news grows only worse for House GOP Leader Mike Turzai's reckless plan to dismantle the PLCB.
First came word that Turzai's claims about how much revenue the auction of liquor licenses could generate were hugely inflated.
Now comes the kicker:
Turzai's claim that privatization will mean lower prices for consumers turns out to be a myth as well.
Just listen to what they're saying in Washington State:
- A Washington retailer "said distributors told him to expect wholesale price increases between $2 and $10 per bottle now that the state is out of the liquor business, which will translate to higher prices for consumers."[1]
- Another said she "does not expect the new state law to draw Oregon consumers or 'booze tourists' to cross state lines into Washington for alcohol," and "[i]t could even get people to head to Oregon to buy."[2]
- "The prospect of higher prices has distillers and distributors worried about making a profit while not driving away customers under the new system."[3]
Lawmakers need to tell Turzai to put an end to his reckless campaign.
His scheme to dismantle the system that generates $530 million a year in profits and taxes for all Pennsylvanians, provides 5,000
family-sustaining jobs, and helps to keep our communities safer - only to replace it with one that hikes prices - just won't fly.
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Get the FACTS about privatization!
Before you vote to privatize the Pennsylvania Wine and Spirits stores, you should know the facts.
Visit our website for more information. You can also find more information at the We Can't Afford It PA website.
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