ST. PAUL (KMHL) – As of November 1st, Minnesota is the only state in the U.S. that still only allows its grocery stores and gas stations to sell 3.2% beer.
A Minnesota Senator is proposing to change that – noting that it will become difficult if not impossible for stores to find 3.2 beer any longer.
“It’s 2019, but Minnesota’s liquor laws still reflect the era of Prohibition,” said Sen. Karin Housley (R-St. Mary’s Point). “Now, we’re the lone remaining state to mandate that grocery stores and convenience stores can only sell 3.2 percent beer. As national production has zeroed out, brewers have largely decided it’s no longer profitable to sell 3.2-percent beer making it difficult – if not impossible – for businesses to carry.”
Housley vows to aggressively pursue legislation to modernize the state’s liquor laws. She says instead of working toward a compromise the system has made it virtually impossible to make any changes to the law.
“Minnesota has a world class craft brewing scene and a booming market,” said Housley. “We should be encouraging growth in that area, not stifling it.”
Housley notes that she has already introduced several bills, including a bill to allow supermarkets and convenience stores to sell beer and wine, and a constitutional amendment to let Minnesotans weigh in.
