North Carolina has joined the growing list of states that recognized the time has come for an increase in alcohol taxes to help alleviate budget deficits. Effective September 1, 2009, the state’s beer tax will increase from 53 cents per gallon to 61.7 cents, while wine will increase from 21 cents per liter to 26.4 cents. Nothing earth-shattering, but the changes will generate new revenue of approximately $19.8 million, which will certainly help stave off cuts in important social programs. In addition, the state-controlled spirits prices will increase from 25 to 30 percent. North Carolina now joins New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Kentucky, and Illinois in taking this important action. It's time for other states, especially California, to take notice.
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