This is a copy of the letter I wrote to the Modesto Bee which appeared on February 3rd, 2009 on page A-9.
Frustration with state budget boils over
As an employee at the Gallo Glass Co. who is feeling the impact of the global recession on everything from rising gas prices to my 401(k) diminishing daily, I am very disappointed to learn that the Legislature and Gov. Schwarzenegger are considering a proposal to raise taxes on spirits, including wine.
My company is already laying off more than 40 employees, due in part to the reeling economy. These are good union jobs, with pensions and health insurance. This new tax will further burden an industry that is already struggling, as are many companies in California. This tax will potentially cost thousands more jobs. Excise taxes such as the one being proposed are regressive and hurt those who can least afford it.
Our state government needs to find more creative ways to balance the budget and stop burdening consumers and damaging companies which are already hurting. For more information on this proposed tax, please go to: http://capwiz.%20com/sinkthedrinktax/home/.
STEPHEN TALBOTT
Welfare Committee, GMP Local Union #17 AFL-CIO, CLC
Waterford
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