A proposal at the Capitol would increase the beer tax by about three cents a bottle. Governor Jim Doyle doesn't believe it's needed. He says he hasn't supported the proposal and that's why he didn't include it in his budget plan.
Supporters of the tax hike want the money to go towards alcohol abuse treatment programs. The Governor says he understands their intentions and knows that alcohol abuse plays a major role in the state's court system. However, Doyle doesn't think the tax hike would actually keep people from drinking.
The Governor also had doubts the proposal has the support needed to pass and even make it to his desk.