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Bill

HB 94

Alcoholic beverages; authorize the sale of wine at grocery stores.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brent Powell

HB 94 would allow Mississippi grocery stores to sell wine, expanding retail access but facing opposition from liquor retailers and raising regulatory concerns.

Died In Committee
#stateaffairs
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Bill Summary · HB 94

Legislative bill overview

HB 94 would authorize Mississippi grocery stores to sell wine directly to consumers, expanding current alcohol retail locations beyond liquor stores and other existing venues. The bill died in the State Affairs Committee in February 2025 without advancing further in the legislative process.

Why is this important

Currently, Mississippi restricts wine sales to specific licensed retailers, limiting consumer convenience and potentially affecting grocery store revenues and competition in the alcohol retail market. Expanding retail access could increase wine consumption accessibility for consumers while generating additional sales tax revenue, though it also raises concerns about regulatory oversight and alcohol availability.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory framework: Questions about how grocery stores would be licensed, trained, and monitored for alcohol sales compliance, age verification, and responsible service
  • Industry impact: Existing liquor store owners may oppose the change as direct competition that could reduce their market share and profitability
  • Public health concerns: Expanded alcohol availability in high-traffic grocery locations could affect consumption patterns, particularly regarding access by minors and normalization of casual wine purchases

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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