CWA Activism: Proposition 135

CWA Activism: Proposition 135

The items in this collection document the CWA's efforts to prevent Proposition 135 from becoming law. Proposition 135 was introduced to the California ballot in 1990. This law would have increased taxes on beer, wine, and distilled spirits. The CWA argued there were hidden costs in the proposal, and that the alcohol beverage industry, one of the largest agricultural products in California, would be negatively and dramatically impacted. At the time, the industry made $800 million annually. With the new law, the CWA proposed that the sales of alcohol would decrease by ten to twenty-five percent; a $123 million reduction. Also, nearly 2000 agricultural workers would lose their jobs. Additionally, the CWA argued that the programs proposed in the bill were “pet programs,” that would not benefit California consumers; especially as only three percent would be devoted to drunk driving prevention programs. Ultimately Proposition 135 was defeated.


To view all of the items in this collection, in addition to the items featured below, click on VIEW THE ITEMS IN CWA ACTIVISM: PROPOSITION 135 link below.