Minibottle law change runs into filibuster

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Proponents of dumping the state's minibottle law may have to wait a little longer to get a referendum on the issue.

Sen. Phil Leventis, D-Sumter, said he wants his fellow senators to decide how a change in the liquor law would be implemented before the issue gets on the ballot for voters to consider.

Leventis, who began filibustering the bill last week, said the state stands to lose $3.6 million in tax collections if it dumps the 1.7-ounce liquor bottles it requires bars and restaurants to use. He disputed the reliability of a state Board of Economic Advisors report that says the change will actually generate an extra $172,000 in tax collections.

The state's struggling economy makes this "a bad time to change," Leventis said. "There's no compulsion to change," he said, noting that minibottles haven't diminished the state's tourism industry.

ON THE NET

Minibottle referendum: http://www.scstatehouse.net/sess115_2003-2004/bills/532.htm