March 18th, 2007 Hot Button Guest Editorial: Luke B. Schmidt, Food With Wine Coalition — Text Version
What would you think if I told you that I know a way that the Kentucky General Assembly can find $59 million in new tax revenue without raising taxes, help Kentucky’s grape growers and wineries grow their businesses, and create new locations where consumers can purchase wine and create more competition in the marketplace?
Article originally posted by the WAVE-TV Web site directed to: http://www.wave3.com/story/8036306/march-18th-2007-hot-button-guest-editorial-luke-b-schmidt-food-with-wine-coalition-text-version?ClientType=Printable&redirected=true
March 18th, 2007 Hot Button Guest Editorial: Luke B. Schmidt, Food With Wine Coalition — Text Version
March 18th, 2008
What would you think if I told you that I know a way that the Kentucky General Assembly can find $59 million in new tax revenue without raising taxes, help Kentucky’s grape growers and wineries grow their businesses, and create new locations where consumers can purchase wine and create more competition in the marketplace?
Allowing grocery stores to sell wine by passing House Bill 585 will create $59 million in new tax revenue through increased wine sales and will create new, convenient and safe places for consumers to buy wine to pair with their food purchase.
Our vineyards and wineries are growing fast. According to staff at the University of Kentucky, by 2010 the state’s 53 growing wineries are expected to produce 630,000 gallons of wine. Our farm families need help in moving this product to market. Allowing grocery stores to sell wine will provide the only meaningful opportunity for our vineyards and wineries to grow their businesses and to eliminate the near-monopoly enjoyed by liquor stores today.
Kentucky’s grocery store industry believes its customers should have a choice when it comes to matching their personal tastes in food with corresponding wine selections.
If you agree with us that now is the time to allow Kentucky to join the 34 other states that allow grocery stores to sell wine, including six of our seven border states, contact your legislator in Frankfort by calling 1-800-372-7181
Tell them that you support House Bill 585 and to vote YES on this important measure.