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O'Malley Won't Sign Malt Drink Measure
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In interviews with reporters as recently as Tuesday, O'Malley did little to tip his hand on the issue. Aides said there was considerable debate within the governor's office about whether to veto the bill.
Advocates who urged a veto argued that the drinks are marketed to underage drinks, particularly young girls, and should not be sold outside liquor stores.
In an interview yesterday, Gansler said O'Malley's action signaled that he understands the issues involved. Gansler said he is hopeful that O'Malley and the legislature will create a separate regulatory category for flavored malt beverages.
"It may turn out to produce the right result in the end," Gansler said. "The ultimate goal is to keep those alcopops out of the reach of young people, and young girls in particular."
Under current Maryland law, beer is taxed at 9 cents per gallon, wine at 40 cents and distilled spirits at $1.50.
In his letter to lawmakers, O'Malley attributed passage of the bill largely "to the threat of a potential 16-fold increase in the tax rate that is currently being assessed on flavored malt beverages."
O'Malley mentioned other bills he has supported that seek to curb underage drinking. One such bill he plans to sign today would increase the maximum penalty for adults who give alcohol to minors.
