First-Ever Passage in General Law Committee
HARTFORD, CT – Legislation to reform Connecticut’s outdated liquor laws, including ending the ban on Sunday alcohol sales, cleared a major legislative hurdle today as it passed the General Law Committee, according to the Distilled Spirits Council – which called the vote a win for consumers, small businesses and the State Treasury.
The revised 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 now moves to the Joint Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee and then on to the full House and Senate where it must be approved by midnight on May 9, the last day of session. The bill would become effective upon passage for Sunday sales, and July 1 for all other measures.
“Bringing Connecticut’s alcohol laws into the 21st Century is a long-overdue modernization that will help give consumers the convenience they want and small businesses the opportunity to start growing,” said Distilled Spirits Council Vice President Jay Hibbard, noting that Connecticut is one of only two states in the entire nation (Indiana) that still clings to such a restrictive ban on Sunday sales of beer, wine and spirits.
“We’re pleased with the steps the General Law Committee has taken to reform Connecticut’s outdated liquor laws and look forward to working with members of the legislature to continue building support to help push these modernizations across the goal line,” Hibbard said.