Representatives voted 76 to 25 Sunday night to increase the cost of alcohol.

The author of the bill, State representative Kenny Cox says the consumers would see about a penny rise for wine and about a one-cent hike per ounce on hard liquors.

“It’s going to be a penny a can. So, every time you take a drink, think about how you are helping people who have mental disabilities, NOW waivers and things like that.”

The tax on beer hasn’t been touched in 68 years, and more than 40 years for wine and hard liquors.

Local vendors at Marcello’s Wine Market say they don’t expect to see a change in business.

“Everybody’s going to absorb the cost. I’m talking about myself, and everybody else in the business. The difference will be minimal, no effect whatsoever.”

The tax will raise about $4 million for the current fiscal year and according to Representative Cox, around $27 million for the following.

The special session ends this Wednesday, March 9. Legislators have until then to make a decision on any other tax hikes.

The state is still looking at a nearly $150 million dollar shortfall.