The HB 3610 Task Force on Alcohol Pricing and Addiction Services conducted 16 meetings over a year, and wisely opted against recommending new taxes on Oregon’s breweries, wineries and cider makers.

Oregon’s alcohol industry is grappling with inflation, supply chain disruptions, employee shortages and elevated business taxes. Recovering from the pandemic and a decline in alcohol consumption, these businesses need legislative support. Public input strongly opposed tax hikes, with 87.5% of 400 submissions voicing disapproval.

Troublingly, the task force revealed the Oregon Health Authority’s failure to track spending on behavioral health services or measure their effectiveness. OHA admitted losing $72 million in substance use disorder funding, and misleading the public by suppressing findings that showed tax increases wouldn’t curb harmful drinking.

Oregon has significantly increased funding for addiction services, but progress is hindered by OHA’s lack of transparency and accountability.

JENNIFER RIOS

Columbia Distributing — North Coast

Warrenton