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Senate passes 1¢‑per‑can beer tax increase after debate over allocation for DUI enforcement
Summary
After initial debate and a day-long hold for amendment drafting, the Utah Senate passed SB66, a beer‑tax increase described by the sponsor as about 1¢ per can and projected to raise roughly $10.6 million in 2003, with senators urging clearer allocation language for enforcement and treatment.
The Utah State Senate returned to a floor debate on SB66, an alcoholic-beverage enforcement and treatment measure that would increase the per-unit tax on beer. Sponsor Senator Wadops framed the change as a narrow increase ("1¢ per can") that would raise statewide revenue (he cited a 2003 projection of roughly $10.6 million) and urged the revenue be used to bolster local enforcement and DUI-related programs.
Supporters pointed to research cited on the floor (Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation) showing a high share of convictions for driving under the influence involved beer consumption and urged funding for local prevention and enforcement. Senators from both parties raised questions about the specificity of how revenues would be appropriated. Senator Wright asked for additional time to craft an amendment that would earmark funds for education and local enforcement and requested the bill be circled to allow for that amendment drafting; sponsors indicated openness to technical tightening. The body agreed to circle the bill briefly.
On returning to the measure, the Senate held a final roll-call and passed SB66, 19–9. The recorded debate and floor statements did not include a final, floor-enacted appropriation schedule for the proceeds; sponsors signaled an intent to work with amendments or fiscal language in committee or in subsequent appropriations processes.
What the Senate said on the floor: - Sponsor: "This is 1¢ per can... We're raising the tax 1¢ per per can." (Sen. Wadops) - Supporters cited League of Cities and Towns' request that a meaningful share (40 percent) of beer-tax revenue be dedicated to local governments for enforcement and that the Legislature consider $2,000,000 in additional annual appropriations for local programs.
Outcome and next steps: SB66 passed the Senate by a 19–9 margin and will be referred to the House. Senators and sponsors indicated they would continue to refine allocation language and that appropriations will be addressed through the budget process if the measure becomes law.
