An Act Ensuring The Regional Competitiveness Of Connecticut's Liquor Prices.
Impact
The bill introduces modifications to Section 30-68m of the Connecticut General Statutes, which defines cost and pricing practices for retail liquor sales. Effective July 1, 2016, the legislation allows retail permit holders to sell one beer item or one non-beer liquor item at a price below cost once per month. However, the sale price cannot be lower than 90% of their cost. This change is anticipated to foster competition among retailers while ensuring that consumer protections remain intact, ultimately benefiting the state's economy.
Summary
Bill SB00014, titled 'An Act Ensuring The Regional Competitiveness Of Connecticut's Liquor Prices,' aims to amend existing regulations surrounding the pricing of alcoholic beverages sold by retail permit holders in Connecticut. The bill seeks to enhance competitive pricing while ensuring that the retail permittees do not sell alcoholic liquor below their cost, except under specific conditions set forth in the bill. This regulation is expected to protect the interests of both businesses and consumers by maintaining fair pricing practices.
Contention
While the bill supports competitive pricing, it may encounter debates regarding the implications for local businesses and the control exerted by large distributors. Concerns may arise regarding the potential for larger retailers to exploit this pricing flexibility to undercut smaller competitors, potentially harming the overall diversity of liquor retailers in Connecticut. Furthermore, stakeholders may express differing opinions on whether the new pricing allowances adequately protect consumer interests without compromising local businesses.
An Act Concerning Motor Vehicle Assessments For Property Taxation, Innovation Banks, The Interest On Certain Tax Underpayments, The Assessment On Insurers, School Building Projects, The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority Charter And Certain State Historic Preservation Officer Procedures.
Relating to the administration, collection, and enforcement of taxes on mixed beverages; imposing a tax on sales of mixed beverages; decreasing the rate of the current tax on mixed beverages.