By David Migoya | Denver Gazette
The unanimous vote virtually assures a smooth path for legislation that would put hard brakes on the quickly expanding sale of spirits outside of local liquor stores.
Colorado’s independent liquor stores won a resounding victory Thursday as a state House committee unanimously approved a bill that would freeze any increase to the number of grocery stores selling hard booze.
The House Business Affairs and Labor Committee passed Senate Bill 25-33 by a 13-0 bipartisan vote, virtually assuring a smooth path for legislation that would put hard brakes on the quickly expanding sale of spirits outside of local liquor stores.
After already passing the Senate largely un-amended, the bill faces a hearing before the House committee on appropriations and, if successful, the full House. It would head to Gov. Jared Polis’ desk if it passes the House.
Legislators were persuaded by several independent liquor store owners who testified Thursday, laying bare the impact voters had in 2022 when they passed Proposition 125 to allow wine sales in grocery stores. That came just a few years after allowing grocers to sell full-strength beer.
Until then, grocery stores were limited to selling what was known as “near-beer” and “3-2 beer” because it could contain up to only 3.2% alcohol.