Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Small Business Economy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate approves bill aimed at protecting small liquor stores and craft producers
Summary
The Senate passed SB33 on Feb. 19, a bill supporters said would preserve independent liquor stores and market access for Colorado craft brewers and distillers; critics said it reduces competition and protects incumbents.
The Colorado Senate on Feb. 19 passed Senate Bill 33, legislation that supporters say will protect independent liquor stores and Colorado’s craft alcohol industry. Sponsors framed the bill as a lifeline for family-owned businesses that face competition from larger grocery and big-box retailers.
Senator Amabile, co-prime sponsor, said the measure provides relief for roughly 1,500 family-owned liquor stores and protects craft brewers and distillers. “This economic collapse of our independent liquor stores will devastate Colorado's craft alcohol industry and negatively impact local economies,” she said on the floor.
Senator Roberts, who spoke in favor of the measure, emphasized that the bill does not alter existing rights for grocery stores that currently sell wine and said the proposal would reduce underage access and preserve community-based outlets. Opponents argued the bill is protectionist and could reduce fairness in competition. Senator Liston called the bill “protectionism” and urged colleagues to consider the voters’ 2022 decision to expand retail access as a reason to oppose the measure.
Senate floor discussion included testimony that grocery chains’ buying power and large discount retailers were the main competitive pressure on independent stores, and that small stores provide market access for local craft producers that may not be able to secure shelf space in large chains.
The bill drew supporters from rural and small-business senators who argued the protection would preserve jobs and local commerce. Opponents warned it could lock in incumbents and limit consumer choice. The measure passed on the floor after committee consideration and adoption of a technical committee amendment; the chamber announced final passage by voice vote.
SB33 as passed directs specific regulatory or licensing limits described in the bill text and includes a technical committee amendment to protect certain long-standing small pharmacies; sponsors said the measure seeks to maintain a market for small retailers and local producers.
