Partnership Led By Howard County Health Officer Organizes Strong and Diverse Opposition to “Alcopops” Legislation The Maryland Partnership Against Alcopops held a press conference yesterday in Annapolis voicing its strong objections to Senate Bill 745, the legislation protects “alcopops” (popular among novice drinkers) with low state excise tax rates and widespread appeal to teens.
The press event, headed by Dr. Peter Beilenson, Howard County Health Officer who was representing both public health officials and the Maryland Association of County Health Officials (MACHO), addressed the many ways our teens are adversely affected by alcopops. Maryland Delegates Bill Bronrott - MD-16 and Heather Mizeur - MD-20 (Health & Government Operation Committee) stressed the ease with which teens have access to these drinks if they continue to be taxed at the beer rate of 9 cents a gallon as opposed to distilled spirits taxes at $1.50 a gallon.
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