Connecticut Governor Malloy repeals long-time Sunday alcohol ban
Hartford, CT – Connecticut residents and tourists now have the opportunity to purchase alcohol on Sundays under legislation signed today by Governor Dannel Malloy repealing the statewide ban on Sunday alcohol sales, according to the Distilled Spirits Council.
“This is an important step for consumer convenience, market modernization and free enterprise,” said Distilled Spirits Council President Peter Cressy, whose organization has supported Sunday sales in states across the country. “For years now, consumers and newspapers across the state have urged the repeal of this outdated Blue Law. We congratulate Governor Malloy for his leadership on this pro-consumer issue.”
House Bill 5021, bipartisan compromise legislation, allows for alcohol sales on Sunday and certain holidays; the ability for retailers to own three liquor licenses instead of two; and a task force to study other necessary liquor law reforms. The bill passed the full House April 26th by a 116-27 vote and the full Senate May 1st by a 28-6 tally. The law is effective immediately for Sunday sales, and effective July 1 for all other measures.
Connecticut becomes the 38th state to pass Sunday spirits sales, and the 49th state to allow some form of Sunday alcohol sales (beer, wine or spirits). Indiana is the only state that still bans Sunday sales of beer, wine and spirits at off-premise establishments such as package stores. Sixteen states, including Connecticut, have passed Sunday alcohol sales laws since 2002.