New York could soon tax alcohol sales to pay for addiction care, according to the Times Union, as lawmakers link expanded drinking access with rising treatment needs.
State Sen. Nathalia Fernandez introduced bills to add a 5% excise tax on retail alcohol sales and redirect existing opioid tax revenue into a dedicated fund for substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery. The proposal comes as New York loosens alcohol rules and faces uncertainty in federal funding.
Supporters say the plan would stabilize services and fill gaps alcohol taxes never covered. Critics warn the tax could hit low-income residents hardest. Fernandez wants the measures folded into the state budget due April 1.
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