Bill to Sell Alcohol on Sundays Can Boost Minn. Economy?

Some say a proposed bill allowing sales of distilled spirits, beer and wine at liquor stores on Sundays could help the Minnesota's revenue.

By eliminating Minnesota's outdated Blue Law, the state will generate revenue for the state and increase consumer convenience, according to Distilled Spirits Council Vice President Jay Hibbard, who testified Tuesday before the House Commerce and Labor Committee in support of a bill permitting Sunday alcohol sales.

"Across the country, states are modernizing their liquor laws to boost state coffers and increase consumer convenience," said Distilled Spirits Council Vice President Jay Hibbard. Since 2002, 14 states have passed legislation allowing Sunday sales of distilled spirits bringing the total to 36 states.

Hibbard said an economic analysis by the Distilled Spirits Council, shows Sunday sales of distilled spirits, beer and wine would generate $7.6 to $10.6 million in new tax revenue for Minnesota and between $54.7 to $76.5 million in new retail sales for the state's small businesses.

He cited a separate economic analysis of 12 states that began allowing Sunday sales between 2002-2005, which showed Sunday sales generated $212 million in new sales in 2006, a 5-8 percent increase in new retail sales.