WATCH: Coalition opposes Chicago alcohol tax hike

(The Center Square) – As Chicago officials aim to replace lost revenue from the state of Illinois’ repealed grocery tax, producers and industry advocates say a proposed tax hike on alcohol would punish retailers and consumers.

A group of Chicago aldermen proposed a 29% increase in the city’s sales tax on retail alcohol sales. The tax was included in the council members’ budget alternative to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s head tax on employers.

Hospitality Business Association of Chicago Managing Director Pat Doerr said consumers are stressed by state and local taxes.

“Stressed consumers don’t go out. They cut back spending,” Doerr said. “I can’t imagine if you’re a stressed consumer and all of a sudden you’re hearing and learning that we could potentially be at 13.5% on your grocery cart purchase of beer, wine or spirits that that’s going to make you want to go out and buy more.”

Doerr said business owners won’t be able to pay their property tax bills when customers flee to the suburbs.

“It will punish all Chicago ret...