Color Scheme

Subscribe now

This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

I-1183 reflects reality

I received a “No on 1-1183” flier yesterday, and I must admit I’m a wee bit confused regarding the arguments against 1-1183.

As I understand it alcohol is already sold in convenience stores, gas stations and mini-marts in the form of beer and wine. I suspect the volume of sales of beer and wine far exceeds that for liquor. Liquor is far more expensive, and I suspect the younger generations prefer the taste of beer and wine.

The “new 27 percent tax” is only on those who will consume liquor, not on all consumers. The $100 million savings will benefit both consumers and non-consumers. Although I do not have the data to prove it, I would venture to make an educated guess that the majority of alcohol driving-related incidents occur with the consumers of wine and beer.

I personally believe it is time to face reality and vote yes on 1-1183.

Carl Smith

Spokane

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

  • No more than 250 words
  • We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
  • We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
  • With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
  • The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form
Submit your letter here
Mail
Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email
letters@spokesman.com
Fax
(509) 459-5098
Phone
(509) 459-5403

Read more about how we crafted our Letters to the Editor policy