ST. PAUL, MN—The Minnesota House passed legislation Monday that would legalize the sale of liquor, beer, and wine on Sundays, the first time in state history that standalone legislation on this issue has been voted on or approved. The bill passed on a bipartisan 85-45 vote, and now heads to the Senate for consideration. The bill (HF30) was chief authored by Rep. Jenifer Loon, R-Eden Prairie.
“Having championed legislation to repeal the Sunday sales ban for the past four years, I have worked hard to bring momentum to this issue and grow support among legislators," said Rep. Loon. "Today’s vote reflects that work, passing bipartisan legislation in the House that is supported by a majority of Minnesota citizens who want to see our state’s antiquated alcohol laws move into the twenty-first century. Repealing the Sunday sales ban will give consumers and businesses the convenience and choice they deserve, and I hope we can get it signed into law this year.”
Sunday Liquor Sales has been a perennial issue at the legislature, but has gained momentum in recent years. In 2013, the provision earned just 21 "yes" votes, increasing each year and culminating in its successful passage in 2017.
"Passing Sunday Sales out of the House would not have been possible without Rep. Loon's persistence and the groundswell of grassroots support from consumers demanding a change from their legislators," added House Speaker Kurt Daudt, R-Crown. "This historic vote brings us one step closer to giving Minnesotans the freedom to buy their favorite beer or wine on any day of the week without government getting in the way."
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