Virginia is one of those states that allows hard liquor to be sold only in state-run stores. The buildings are state-owned (or leased), the staff are state employees, the prices are high and the selection is poor. For years, I have wondered why we didn't put the liquor business in private hands. The state could still get its tax revenue, but it would save a bundle on the costs of owning or leasing property and buildings, as well as the employee salaries and benefits. All gain, no pain. I can't see a downside.
Now, finally, Robert McDonnell, the Republican candidate for Governor, proposes to do exactly that. He also points out another benefit, i.e. that privately owned stores would pay property and other taxes into local communities, as government stores of course do not. (McDonnell is on much weaker ground when he claims that this will produce savings that will contribute significantly to the state's crying need for road improvements. It's only a drop in the bucket.) Nevertheless, the idea is worth considering on its own merits. Here's a case where there doesn't seem to be any benefit to citizens by having government involved, so the candidate proposes to get the government completely out, which is key to saving money. I wish him well in implementing it if he's elected.
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