Should this bill be enacted, it would alter existing regulations on wine sales in South Carolina, allowing for higher alcohol content wines to be sold in licensed liquor stores. This change could enhance market dynamics, providing consumers with access to a wider variety of wines, which may include stronger selections that were previously unavailable in regular liquor outlets. Additionally, the law serves to align South Carolina's ABV limits with those of other states, possibly influencing local businesses and distributors in a broader economic context.
Summary
Bill S0022 proposes an amendment to the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically targeting Section 61-4-770 concerning the sale of wines in licensed alcoholic liquor stores. The primary focus of this bill is to change the permissible alcohol by volume (ABV) limit for wines sold in these establishments from sixteen and one-half percent to twenty percent. This change is significant as it affects the types and varieties of wines that can be offered by liquor stores and potentially expands the range of products available to consumers in South Carolina.
Contention
While proponents of S0022 argue that increasing the allowable ABV for wines will benefit consumers and the wine industry, there could be points of contention among various community stakeholders. Critics may voice concerns regarding public health implications, as higher alcohol content wines could lead to increased alcohol consumption, thereby raising issues related to alcohol-related incidents and community safety. Discussions in the legislature are likely to revolve around balancing economic interest in the beverage industry against public health and safety considerations.