(The Center Square) – Illinoisans are well aware that enjoying a cocktail in Chicago is usually a pricey venture, but if the mayor has his way, it could get worse.
In addition to walking back on a campaign promise not to raise property taxes, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is also proposing a sizable tax hike on alcohol.
Johnson wants to increase the wholesale transaction prices per gallon of beer by 34%, and by about 35% for other spirits.
“Our budget reflects the commitment to invest in our people and neighborhoods, ensuring that every Chicagoan has the opportunity to thrive,” Johnson said.
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States slammed the proposal, saying it would harm an already decimated hospitality industry still reeling from the pandemic and followed by supply chain disruptions, staffing shortages and record inflation.
“Adding a significant tax increase is not going to do anything to help,” said DISCUS Senior Vice President and head of State Public Policy Andy Deloney.