Local News: Thursday, April 07, 2005
Sunday liquor sales win Senate OK
By The Associated Press
OLYMPIA — The Senate voted yesterday to repeal the state's long-standing prohibition of Sunday liquor sales.
The measure passed 31-17. Because some amendments were made in committee, it will go back to the House, which passed it last month, 62-34. Gov. Christine Gregoire has not indicated whether she will sign the bill if it passes.
The measure establishes a pilot program in which at least 20 of the 161 state-owned liquor stores could sell on Sundays. Contract liquor stores also would be allowed to open.
Stores would be chosen based on factors such as how much liquor they sell and their location. The state Liquor Control Board must present a cost-benefit report to the Legislature by Jan. 31, 2007.
The liquor board has estimated the change would generate $7.3 million for the general fund and $2.2 million for local governments.
"If it means more revenue for the state, why shouldn't we do it?" said Sen. Alex Deccio, R-Yakima.
But Sen. Bob McCaslin, R-Spokane Valley, said, "We're just pushing this thing just a little too far. I don't want you to stop at a liquor store on your way to church. You can wait until Monday."
Sunday liquor sales win Senate OK
By The Associated Press
OLYMPIA — The Senate voted yesterday to repeal the state's long-standing prohibition of Sunday liquor sales.
The measure passed 31-17. Because some amendments were made in committee, it will go back to the House, which passed it last month, 62-34. Gov. Christine Gregoire has not indicated whether she will sign the bill if it passes.
The measure establishes a pilot program in which at least 20 of the 161 state-owned liquor stores could sell on Sundays. Contract liquor stores also would be allowed to open.
Stores would be chosen based on factors such as how much liquor they sell and their location. The state Liquor Control Board must present a cost-benefit report to the Legislature by Jan. 31, 2007.
The liquor board has estimated the change would generate $7.3 million for the general fund and $2.2 million for local governments.
"If it means more revenue for the state, why shouldn't we do it?" said Sen. Alex Deccio, R-Yakima.
But Sen. Bob McCaslin, R-Spokane Valley, said, "We're just pushing this thing just a little too far. I don't want you to stop at a liquor store on your way to church. You can wait until Monday."
