2009 Indiana legislation

HB 1604 - doubling Marion County excise tax rate

The mayor's plan to raise operating funds for Conseco Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium by increasing the alcohol tax passed the state Senate on April 15, 2009. The bill now goes to a House/Senate conference committee for further discussion, while the Indianapolis City-County Council will take up the issue April 16 at 6 p.m.

The price increase would be effective July 1 and would reportedly net the state an additional $10-$12 million a year, which would go toward the Indianapolis Capital Improvement Board to run the sports stadiums. However, industry experts believe the tax will punish small businesses in Marion County, drive down sales and will be difficult to administer for companies who do business in multiple counties.

In the end, the guy who can't afford to go to a Colts or Pacers game and enjoys a beer at home with his frozen pizza will be the one who foots the bill for the stadium. Find your City-County Councilor and voice your opposition to this plan or contact Mayor Greg Ballard.