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ABC board warns House Bill 921 could reduce local store revenues, stresses public‑health concerns
Summary
The Blowing Rock ABC board updated the council on House Bill 921, which would allow some premixed canned spirits to be sold in grocery stores and expand where restaurants may purchase alcohol; the board projects a modest local revenue impact (3–5%) and raised public‑health concerns.
Al Shackleford, speaking for the Blowing Rock ABC board, briefed the council on House Bill 921 and how it could affect the local ABC store. Shackleford said the bill contains multiple provisions, including allowing premixed canned drinks with alcohol up to 9.9% to be sold in grocery stores if the retailer holds a beer/wine license, and provisions that would relax county purchase restrictions for restaurants.
Shackleford told the council the state ABC Commission warned communities the bill could reduce ABC sales by as much as 13% statewide; based on the Blowing Rock store’s mix, he estimated a 3–5% local impact. He framed the board’s objection as a public‑health concern, citing research and his decades in law enforcement: "When alcohol becomes more available, alcohol‑related harms increase," he said. The ABC board also highlighted that local ABC profits support education, alcohol‑education programs, and law enforcement initiatives.
Council member outreach had secured a partial amendment: for common local purchases, restaurants would still be required to buy in either Boone or Blowing Rock unless a 90‑day waiver is granted for special items, a change Shackleford credited to outreach by council members. The ABC board asked the council to remain engaged as the bill moves through committee.
