For years Wyoming has had one of the lowest Beer taxes in the nation and soon it may not be taxed at all. The Wyoming House of Representatives has given initial approval to a bill that removes the beer tax that’s been around since the 1930’s.
For several years local governments have tried to increase the tax to get more money to pay for substance abuse issues in their communities, but those bills rarely go anywhere.
House Revenue Chairman Mike Madden says the current tax only nets 250-thousand dollars each year, so he proposed getting rid of it altogether. Cheyenne Republican Sue Wilson is a firm supporter.
“We have an opportunity for economic development for small businesses, for beer tourism, and reduced taxes, and make nearly every one of your constituents happy. I don’t see how you can refuse this bill.” Gillette Republican Roy Edwards says just reducing the tax on beer is unfair and other alcohol should also be considered. The bill will be debated two more times.