Colorado measure would pull hard liquor and spirit sales away from grocers

Just over a year after Proposition 125 became official in the state of Colorado, lawmakers are already looking to change the scope of it, reports local media affiliate KUSA.

Voters approved Proposition 125, which allows grocery and convenience stores that sell beer to also sell wine, back in November 2022, but since it took effect on March 1, 2023, independent liquor stores have been struggling.

State House Bill 1373 states only liquor stores would be able to sell hard liquor and spirits and would alter the liquor licenses of grocery stores, mostly of the large variety. The bill passed the Business Affairs and Labor Committee by a 6-5 vote on April 4.

Mat Dinsmore, president of Colorado Independent Liquor Stores United, claims at least 100 independent liquor stores have closed since Proposition 125 has been active.

Safeway, King Soopers, Costco, Walmart, Target, and Sam’s Club are among the stores that could be impacted by HB 1373.