SALEM, Ore. – Oregon’s wine industry was surprised and dismayed by the investigative story released by The Oregonian today that the Oregon Health Authority failed to publicly release findings from a 2021 report which found that increasing alcohol taxes would do little to curb excessive drinking. 

“Oregonians should be able to rely on our public health agency for transparency and honesty,” said Jana McKamey, Executive Director of the Oregon Winegrowers Association. “Cherry picking data is not in the best interest of finding collaborative solutions to help Oregonians facing addiction issues. Our wine industry is committed to encouraging moderate consumption and preventing underage drinking, and we want to ensure substantial existing resources are being deployed effectively to address problem drinking.” 

- Read the full release here