The bill to allow grocery stores to sell all kinds of wine — not just Arkansas and small-batch products — was approved by the House today on reconsideration, 53-34.

It goes to the Senate, for likely approval, with a House amendment that expands the ability of liquor stores to sell food and also adds more encouragement for construction of a wine visitor center in Arkansas.

Advertisement

The bill is the result of lobbying by Walmart, major grocery chains and a handful of big liquor stores that capitalize on sales in neighboring counties. The liquor stores rolled over in return for a promise that Walmart and the groceries wouldn’t repeat efforts to get local option alcohol measures approved for the next eight years. Small liquor stores have battled the bill, but looks like they’ve lost. They say they’ll lose profit margin and some will be forced to close. Arkansas wineries had some objections, too.

Help to Keep Great Journalism Alive in Arkansas

Join the fight for truth and become a subscriber of the Arkansas Times. We've been battling powerful forces for 50 years through our tough, determined, and feisty journalism. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, our readers value great journalism. But we need your help to do even more. By subscribing and supporting our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage. Together, we can continue to hold the powerful accountable and bring important stories to light. Subscribe now or donate for as little as $1 and be a part of the Arkansas Times community.

Previous article An open line and a busy day at the Capitol Next article UPDATE: Bill to prohibit smoking marijuana passes Senate committee