The House passed an omnibus liquor bill April 8, but rejected a measure that would have allowed liquor stores to open on Sundays.
Sponsored by Rep. Joe Atkins (DFL-Inver Grove Heights) and Sen. Linda Scheid (DFL-Brooklyn Park),
HF3186/
SF2808* authorizes liquor sales at several venues and contains other mostly noncontroversial provisions. The House voted 114-13 to pass the bill, but overwhelmingly rejected an amendment that would have permitted Sunday liquor sales.
Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls) offered the amendment, arguing that it would “move Minnesota into the current century and away from the blue laws of Prohibition.”
In the ensuing hour-long debate, supporters from both parties argued the amendment would benefit consumers, reaffirm free market principles and possibly even generate new tax revenue.
“This is about allowing Minnesota to recapture some of the commerce that we’re losing to other states,” said Rep. Steve Drazkowski (R-Mazeppa), noting that 36 other states allow Sunday liquor sales, including Wisconsin.
Opponents countered that it would be a burden on municipal liquor stores and small-business owners, many of whom would be forced to be open longer hours and take on more payroll costs to stay competitive.
“With our small businesses struggling in this state, I don’t think costing them more money is a good idea,” said Rep. Dean Urdahl (R-Grove City).
The amendment was defeated 110-20.
The bill would allow liquor licenses to be issued for several locations, including: the Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis; the University of St. Thomas’ Minneapolis campus; the Bemidji Regional Event Center; and Bemidji State University.
The bill would also allow the Minnesota State Fair to issue licenses to concessionaires to sell beer. Previously, Ramsey County issued the licenses. Additionally, the bill specifies that the fair can issue licenses for vendors to sell wine by the glass at the fair as long as it is produced in Minnesota.
The Senate passed the bill 56-5 on April 13, and it now awaits action by the governor.