OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington lawmakers are considering selling ice, mixers and barware at state-run liquor stores to generate additional revenue, but grocers say the proposal threatens their bottom lines.
Two bills moving through the Legislature would allow the state Liquor Control Board to sell alcohol-related products at its approximately 325 stores. The board estimates net profits of about $2 million over the 2011-2013 biennium, when the state faces a looming $5 billion budget deficit.
Supporters say the plan is a win-win: greater convenience for customers and more money for the state.
But grocers and convenience store owners say the change would rob them of profits they count on to stay afloat. They say the purpose of the state-run liquor business is promoting public health and safety, not selling swizzle sticks.
