State lawmakers are being sent a memo from business leaders who opposed a proposed tax hike for beer .
Pete Hanson with the Wisconsin Restaurant Association says they're trying to say that the state doesn't need to rush into a beer tax hike, just because the state hasn't done it since 1969. Hanson says beer is part of Wisconsin's heritage and a major part of the state economy. He says a tax increase could mean lost jobs for the industry.
Hanson adds that sponsors aren't being realistic. He's among many who doubt the proposed hike of three cents a bottle would help reduce drunk driving and alcohol abuse.
Groups signing the memo include associations representing grocery stores, bowling alleys, innkeepers, Miller Brewing and Anheuser-Busch.
AUDIO: John Colbert reports (MP3 :38)
