Hike would be second in two years, would raise prices for consumers and cost Mississippi jobs
The American Distilled Spirits Alliance (ADSA), the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and the Wine Institute (WI) sent a letter today to Governor Tate Reeves urging his veto of another increase in the state bailment fee on every case of wine and spirits in the state.
The new fee would be $1.50 per case which is up from $1.00 in 2022. Prior to 2022, there was no such tax.
“The Mississippi Legislature just voted to raise prices on every bottle of wine and spirits in the state by passing a 50% fee increase,” said the coalition. “This comes at a time when Mississippi’s hospitality industry has yet to fully recover from the pandemic while continuing to face new economic challenges like staffing shortages, inflation and supply chain disruptions. And as prices increase, consumers in border towns will simply drive across state lines into Tennessee, Louisiana or Alabama to buy the same products at a cheaper price. We urge the governor to veto this misguided proposal that would harm consumers and local businesses in the state.”
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About the American Distilled Spirits Alliance
The American Distilled Spirits Alliance is a group of industry leaders in manufacturing, importing, and marketing of distilled spirits in the United States and around the world. It represents hundreds of spirits brands and over 60% of all distilled spirits sales in the U.S.
About the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States is the leading voice and advocate for distilled spirits in the U.S., advocating on legislative, regulatory and public affairs issues impacting the distilled spirits sector at the local, state, federal and international levels. DISCUS members are committed to responsibility and encourage adults who drink to do so in moderation.
About the Wine Institute
Wine Institute is the only U.S. organization advocating for wine at the state, federal and international levels. It brings together the resources of 1,000 wineries and affiliated businesses to support legislative and regulatory advocacy, international market development, media relations, scientific research and education programs that benefit the entire California wine industry.