Liquor Lobby Has Its Way with Wisconsin State Legislators

And it shouldn't come as a big surprise to anyone.

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Link to May 10 Wisconsin Democracy Campaign news release, "New Drunken Driving Law Under The Influence Of Alcohol Industry Contributions".

Excerpt:   The cost of tougher penalties and treatment programs in a new drunken driving law effective in July is not paid for because the legislature refused to increase liquor or beer taxes opposed by the alcohol industry – one of the largest special interest contributors to legislative campaigns, a Wisconsin Democracy Campaign analysis shows.

The industry, which includes liquor, beer and wine manufacturers, distributors, stores and taverns, was one of the largest special interest contributors in 2008 and 2009 to current legislators. The industry contributed $293,892 in 2008 to help legislators get elected, ranking it third among 97 special interest groups. Last year legislators received another $115,191 from the industry – fifth highest among special interest groups – while numerous bills to change drunken driving laws and increase the beer tax were being considered.

Over the past 10 years, the liquor industry has contributed $2.53 million – fifth highest among about 100 special interest categories – to all legislative candidates and leadership committees.