Experts in New Mexico are advocating for an increase in alcohol taxes in the state. According to a report by KRQE News 13, experts believe that raising alcohol taxes can have various benefits, including reducing alcohol-related harm and increasing revenue for the state.
Alcohol taxes are currently relatively low in New Mexico compared to other states, making it an attractive place for heavy drinkers due to cheaper prices. This has led to an increase in excessive drinking and alcohol-related problems in the state. By raising alcohol taxes, experts believe that the cost of alcohol will increase, leading to a decrease in excessive drinking and related problems such as alcohol-related accidents, violence, and health issues.
In addition to reducing harmful alcohol consumption, increasing alcohol taxes can also benefit the state financially. The revenue generated from higher alcohol taxes can be used to fund various programs aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm, such as treatment programs for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction and prevention campaigns targeting underage drinking.
Advocates for higher alcohol taxes argue that the additional revenue generated can help offset the costs associated with alcohol-related harm, which can be substantial for states. By implementing higher alcohol taxes, New Mexico can not only reduce harmful drinking behaviors but also improve public health and safety while increasing funding for prevention and treatment programs.
Overall, experts agree that raising alcohol taxes in New Mexico is a necessary step to address the growing issue of excessive drinking and its associated harms. By increasing alcohol taxes, the state can work towards creating a safer and healthier environment for its residents while also generating much-needed revenue to support these efforts.
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Photo credit www.krqe.com
