Costco gives nearly $10 million for liquor initiative

OLYMPIA — Costco has given nearly $10 million to support an initiative campaign that would privatize Washington’s liquor distribution and sales. New finance reports filed with the state Public Disclosure Commission show Costco giving an additional $2.8 million to the cause last week, bringing their total to over $9.6 million. This is the second year in a row that Costco has spent millions on a liquor privatization initiative. Last year’s measure failed, but supporters are returning to the ballot this November with a plan that includes new restrictions as well as revenues for government. An opposition group has raised more than $7 million this year, largely from the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America. Ballots for the election are due to be sent out at the end of next week.