ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A Florida state Senate committee passed on a bill Thursday that would allow shoppers to purchase liquor at grocery stores, repealing a law that has been in place for 80 years.
Proponents of the bill say it would benefit shoppers to be able to buy things like vodka and veggies at the same store.
“It would be much more convenient for the consumer,” shopper Anna Zarrella said. “They could come in and come out (and) get everything they need.”
Sen. Anitere Flores pointed out Thursday that the law prohibiting the sale of liquor at grocery stores was antiquated and should be repealed.
“This was a law that was (passed) around 80 years ago, with a purpose,” she said. “That purpose is long gone.
“It is not our job to stand in the way of the 21st Century innovation and the American entrepreneurial spirit.”
Hunter Godinez, whose father owns a small construction business, said he could see both sides of the issue.
“For the small businesses, it would hurt a lot,” he said, noting small stores would likely not be able to compete with larger chains.
While he said the change would be convenient personally, Godinez wasn’t sure the change would be worth the cost for small businesses.
“I understand the importance of them and I know that we need them and how hard it is to keep it ongoing,” he said.
The bill still has to pass the full legislature before going into effect.
Cox Media Group
