This statement from Jay Hibbard, vice president of the Washington D.C.-based Distilled Spirits Council, reminded the Blogster that the holiday weekend is upon us and perhaps a six pack of microbrew, bottle of wine, or some blue agave should be purchased in anticipation of Sunday, when we cannot buy alcohol from retail stores.
Here’s his statement in reaction to the Democratic budget that would raise taxes on alcohol by $19.1 million over the two years starting July 1: “Connecticut is one of only two states in the entire country that continue the Sunday alcohol ban now that Georgia passed Sunday sales last week. By the state’s own estimate, Connecticut could generate up to $8 million in new tax revenue annually from Sunday sales. Why policymakers would even consider raising taxes in this environment before raising revenue through creative alternatives like Sunday sales – especially when most residents want it – is beyond me. You would think policymakers would try to protect the hospitality industry; not punish those businesses and workers with higher taxes.”
Amid conflicting estimates over the amount of revenue that could be generated, as well as claims that small store owners would be crushed by supermarkets in the Sunday-sales landscape, state lawmakers recently killed legislation that would establish Sunday retail sales. It was a victory for the Connecticut Package Stores Association. But lawmakers including Rep. Kathy Tallarita, D-Enfield, are preparing amendments that could be introduced during floor debates on any bills even vaguely associated with alcohol sales.