Advocates for alcohol and drug abuse treatment and prevention have been trying for 10 years or more to increase the per-gallon tax as a “user fee” for those who abuse alcohol. The idea is simple. The user fee on alcohol would go into treating and preventing alcohol and drug abuse to, in effect, cause the abusers to pay for services and expenses they will eventually incur for the Indiana taxpayer.

I recognize that the Colts, Pacers and convention business bring in large amounts of money; however, the income does not cover the expense that addictive disease creates in Indiana. Mayor Greg Ballard says the convention business brings in $3.2 billion a year to Indianapolis. Failing to adequately treat and prevent drug and alcohol abuse and dependence actually costs the state more than the convention and entertainment business bring in.

The Department of Correction estimates that more than 80 percent of the state prison population has a connection with drug and alcohol abuse and addiction. About 80 percent of the DOC budget adds up to about $660 million a year. Add the prisoners in jails in each county and we at least double the $660 million to $1.32 billon. When we add in the cost of county courts, probation departments, drug courts, local and state police, the cost to taxpayers would easily pass the $2 billion mark.

Sen. Luke Kenley is right: Increasing the alcohol tax will cost the average Joe citizen pennies, but those pennies mostly paid by those abusing or dependent on alcohol can add up to a very positive increase in the treatment of addiction disease.

Tom Cox

Chairperson,The Association of Substance Abuse Providers of Indiana

Bloomington