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OpinionMarch 18, 2005

To the editor: It is certainly disappointing to see that Missouri House Speaker Rod Jetton continues to refuse to assign House Bill 184 to committee. This bill proposes to reduce alcohol-related problems and underage drinking by creating a special fund in the state treasury into which surcharges on beer, wine and spirits would be deposited. ...

To the editor:

It is certainly disappointing to see that Missouri House Speaker Rod Jetton continues to refuse to assign House Bill 184 to committee.

This bill proposes to reduce alcohol-related problems and underage drinking by creating a special fund in the state treasury into which surcharges on beer, wine and spirits would be deposited. This money would then be used to reduce underage and irresponsible drinking. Legislative approval would result in placement on the ballot for Missouri voters to ultimately decide in the 2006 general election.

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This bill can certainly be viewed as pro-life, since we all know that alcohol is a primary factor in unwanted pregnancies, accidental deaths, homicides and suicides. In fact, a clear majority of Missouri registered voters recognize this connection, as a recent survey found that two-thirds of the respondents are supportive of an increase in alcohol excise taxes.

If Speaker Jetton truly values life and the democratic process, he will allow this bill to proceed rather than give the impression that he is under the influence of Anheuser-Busch.

JAMES MAGINEL, Cape Girardeau

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