Despite the arguments in favor of privatization, Gov. Beverly Perdue has announced she opposes proposals to give up the government monopoly on liquor sales.
2 p.m. update: Here’s the response from incoming Senate Leader Phil Berger’s office:
?I share Gov. Perdue?s concerns regarding the sustainability of revenue derived from the ABC system. Our state is facing a massive $3.7 billion budget deficit and a nearly ten percent unemployment rate. Our number one priority must be to balance the budget and foster an environment where the private sector can create jobs. I believe that we should continue to look at opportunities for privatizing governmental functions and continue to consider privatizing the ABC system. However, the decision to privatize should be a carefully considered long term policy decision and not a short term decision based on the state?s budget situation.?
