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Maryland health advocates pleased by alcohol tax use
ANNAPOLIS — Most of the money raised by a 50 percent increase in Maryland’s sales tax on alcohol has been allocated for health needs under Gov. Martin O’Malley’s budget, said health advocates who cheered the result Tuesday. Vincent DeMarco, president of Maryland Citizens’ Health Initiative, said roughly $64 million has been set aside for health […]
Campaign launched to raise tobacco taxes in Maryland
The Maryland Citizens’ Health Initiative has launched a campaign to raise taxes on all tobacco products in Maryland. Cigarette prices would increase by $1 per pack, and other tobacco taxes would increase at a corresponding rate. More than 150 faith, community and health organizations have already endorsed the proposed tax, including the AARP, the National […]
Restaurants, wineries see mixed results during session
While the 2011 legislative session brought gains to the winery and restaurant industries, it also served up a 50 percent increase in alcohol taxes in the closing moments. “It’s a sad commentary for how the business community is viewed by the legislature,” said Jack Milani, legislative director for the Maryland State Licensed Beverage Association. Milani […]
Md. House gives preliminary OK to alcohol tax increase
ANNAPOLIS – The House of Delegates gave preliminary approval to a 50 percent increase to the sales tax on alcohol starting July 1. The bill and companion legislation would raise $87 million for the state, to be split among mental health initiatives and education. Under the plan crafted by the House Ways and Means Committee […]
Poll boasts public support for alcohol tax increase
A new poll commissioned by advocates of an increase to the state’s tax on alcohol found that 66 percent of Marylanders support the hike as a way to fund health programs. Fewer people — 55 percent — said they support the increase if the funds were used to reduce the state’s $1.6 billion budget deficit. […]
DeMarco calls Andy Harris’ health care stand “outrageous”
Have you heard the one about the newly elected congressman who ran against the federal health care overhaul, then complained when he learned his government-subsidized plan wouldn’t kick in until a month after he was sworn in? Vinnie DeMarco has. And he thinks it’s “outrageous.” DeMarco is the president of the Health Care for All […]
