OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — The Washington Supreme Court will decide Thursday whether to uphold an initiative privatizing state liquor sales, just one day before the measure is to take effect.
Voters approved Initiative 1183 last fall. It allows stores larger than 10,000 square feet and some smaller stores to sell liquor. It also includes a provision for public safety funding.
Opponents filed suit, arguing the measure violates state rules requiring initiative to address only one subject. A judge rejected that claim, but opponents appealed to the Washington Supreme Court.
The court heard oral arguments on the case May 17. The entire measure would be nullified if the court determines voters would have rejected the initiative without the public safety provision.
