Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Grocery and convenience store owners in Kansas are pushing for changes in state law to allow them to sell full-strength beer, wine and liquor.

The Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee opened hearings
on a bill Tuesday that pits them against liquor store owners.

Kansas allows grocery and convenience stores to sell what's known under the law as cereal malt beverage, or beer that is 3.2 percent or less alcohol by weight. Only liquor stores can sell stronger beer, wine or liquor.

Backers of the measure argue it will increase competition and generate new jobs and tax revenues. They testified Tuesday.

Opponents are scheduled to testify Wednesday. They contend the
bill will help mostly big grocery and convenience store chains and
put family-owned liquor stores out of business.