Wasilla, Alaska — On July 16, 2013 the Mat-Su Borough Assembly passed an ordinance that will give local voters the opportunity to vote on whether an area-wide alcoholic beverage sales tax should be implemented. The ordinance was introduced by Assembly Member Steve Colligan to diversify the revenue stream for the Borough, which currently relies primarily on property taxes for its operating funds. Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) supports the proposed tax because it would reduce the economic burden of alcohol abuse in our community while simultaneously helping to improve the health of Mat-Su.

“Alcohol dependence and abuse dramatically affect individuals, families, and the community as a whole,” said Elizabeth Ripley, MSHF Executive Director. “Research shows that excessive use of alcohol contributes to a wide range of health and social issues, including unintentional injuries, illnesses, violence, and lost productivity. However, there is evidence that alcoholic beverage taxes lead to reduced consumption, and we believe this tax will be beneficial to the health of our community.”

Qualified voters will be asked to decide whether the proposed tax should be implemented at the regular borough election on October 1, 2013.

MSHF prepared this White Paper on the proposed tax.

About Mat-Su Health Foundation: Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is the official business name of Valley Hospital Association, Inc., which shares ownership in Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. In this capacity, the MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital and protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution through board oversight. The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org.