Legislative Alert
We had a good showing of stores at yesterday's public hearing. We also had a good strategic list of speakers that were package store owners. Additionally, through the CT Small Brand Council (CSBC), Adam Von Gootkin of Onyx, Doug Rankin of Missing Link Wine Company and Margaret Chatey from Westford Hill Distillers all spoke in opposition to repealing minimum pricing and they argued that their smaller brands wouldn't be on store shelves without current minimum pricing. The Wine and Spirit Wholesalers and CT Beer Wholesaler's Association were also in support of package stores. It is clear from the testimony of those that oppose us that they will put all their efforts behind this repeal in order to have market domination by large spirit brands and big-box retailers. From here, we lobby the General Law Committee to try to defeat the proposal in the coming weeks. This issue is not going to be over until June 5, when the legislature adjourns. Thank you to all those that attended the hearing and that have called their legislators.
You must contact your state legislator again (Representative and Senator). Tell them that this bill, HB6361 AN ACT CONCERNING FAIR ALCOHOL PRICING, is not good for consumer selection of a vast amount of products, small business, or ultimately the cost of the product when the big-box retailers are the only ones left dominating the market. Those that oppose us want to draw attention away from the sales and excise taxes on the product and the fact that the spirit manufacturers sell to CT for a higher price than other states. If you know who your legislators are then you can call the following numbers: House Democrats 800-842-8267, Senate Democrats 800-842-1420, House Republicans 800-842-1423, Senate Republicans 800-842-1421. If you do not know who your legislator is where you live and work, then you need to call your local Registrar of Voters and then call the numbers above. You can also go to the following link to find out your legislator:
www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/CGAFindLeg.asp We will keep you posted.
