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Costco's support tops $11M on liquor initiative

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Costco has given more than $11 million to support an initiative campaign that would privatize Washington's liquor distribution and sales.

New finance reports filed with the state Public Disclosure Commission show Costco giving an additional $2.8 million to the cause last week, bringing their total cash contribution to over $9.6 million. The company has also given $1.4 million through in-kind donations such as legal fees and staff time.

This is the second year in a row that Costco has spent millions on a liquor privatization initiative.

Last year's measure failed, but supporters are returning to the ballot this November with a plan that includes new restrictions as well as revenues for government. An opposition group has raised more than $7 million this year, largely from the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.

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