The North Carolina House Finance Committee adopted a $784 million tax package yesterday designed to soften the deep budget cuts proposed by appropriation subcommittees during the past month.  Before the final package was approved, House Finance Committee members shaved $154 million from the proposed $940 million tax plan by removing "sin" taxes on beer, wine and cigarettes.

"We got folks who are barely scrimping by as it is. Beer may be their only entertainment," said Rep. Bill Faison, an Orange County Democrat who proposed removing beer from the tax package.


For the citizens of our state who depend on beer for entertainment, I am thrilled that Bill Faison has protected their happiness in order to sacrafice the millions in our state who are reliant on government to provide safety, security, and opportunity.  Bill Faison, we honor your service by making you a "Real Man of Genious!"  So next time you crack open a cold one, remeber Bill Faison is looking out for you!


Come on folks, if beer is your only source of entertainment you have issues.  If you are just getting by, then you need to save your money and not spend it on beer or cigarettes.  I do not mean to be preachy and condescending to the folks Faison is referencing in his comments, but why not pick up a book, go excersie, or perhaps volunteer in your community. 

It is these type of assanying comments that drive me nuts and make me lose respect for our elected leadership.  Though I do not like tax increases, taxes on alcohol and tobacco products are logical ways to increase revenue.  I prefer this type of tax increase over tax increases on necessary goods and services because NO person needs alcohol and tobacco to survive.