Amazing. Simply amazing. From WSJ's brilliant James Taranto:

(Canadian) TV reports that according to the research, raising booze prices by up to 150% "could have a major impact on everything from hospital visits and traffic accidents, to venereal disease."

So far, so good. But "there's a concern" that if prices go up, "those who can't afford it" will "go to the less expensive, and far more damaging, rubbing alcohol, antifreeze and mouthwash to drink."

The proposed solution: "a controlled access program that gives free alcohol to homeless alcoholics." A socialized open bar! Those who drink responsibly pay more to bail out the real drunks.

Government social engineering at its finest, folks.