Oregon Senator Ron Wyden (D) on Monday proposed reducing the excise tax on Oregon brewers as a way of stimulating Oregon's economy.
"Obviously, there is so much economic hurt in our state right now that I'm making my special focus those industries that we can really look at as having an opportunity to generate more good positions," said Senator Wyden in a press conference at Eugene's Ninkasi Brewery on July 5.
The bill being discussed by Senator Wyden would reduce the excise tax on breweries producing fewer than 2 million barrels a year. The tax would be reduced from $7 to $3.50.
Oregon brewing, responsible for $2.3 billion dollars a year, is an industry that Senator Wyden identified as a key player in getting Oregonians back to work.
Senator Wyden hopes to pass the bill by the end of 2010.
Fans of Oregon craft beer will also welcome any economic impact on the price of beer that may result from this tax reduction.
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