Oglala Sioux Tribe President Theresa Two Bulls testified in support of a bill that would set aside alcohol tax revenue for health facilities, economic development and law enforcement near Whiteclay, Nebraska.

Two Bulls said the revenue could be used to build an alcohol detoxification center. “All we’re asking is, give us some of that money we give you back so we can help our tribal members,” she testified, The Omaha World-Herald reported.

Alcohol industry lobbyists opposed the measure, saying alcohol taxes shouldn't be earmarked for specific purposes. They said lawmakers should approve a different bill that would set aside money from the state's general tax fund for Whiteclay.

Four liquor stores sell millions of cans of a beer every year, mostly to members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, which has a ban on liquor on the Pine Ridge Reservation.

Get the Story:
Alcohol lobbyists oppose bill (The Omaha World-Herald 2/4)

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