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Bill

Bill

S 368

BLOCK Act

119th Congress Introduced by John Neely Kennedy

Bill S 368 allows liquor stores to sell tonic water, bitters, maraschino cherries, and dealcoholized wine, enhancing consumer choice and boosting store sales.

Introduced in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 368

Summary of Bill S 368

Bill Number: S 368
Title: Permits the sale of tonic water, bitters, maraschino cherries, and dealcoholized wine at liquor stores
Status: Referred to Investigations and Government Operations
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 368 aims to expand the range of products that can be sold at liquor stores by permitting the sale of specific non-alcoholic items. The intent is to enhance consumer choice and convenience by allowing liquor stores to offer tonic water, bitters, maraschino cherries, and dealcoholized wine alongside traditional alcoholic beverages.

Key Provisions

  • Product Inclusion: The bill specifically allows liquor stores to sell:

    • Tonic water
    • Bitters
    • Maraschino cherries
    • Dealcoholized wine
  • Regulatory Framework: The bill does not outline specific regulatory changes but implies that liquor stores will need to comply with existing laws governing the sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected

  • Consumers: The bill is expected to benefit consumers by providing greater access to mixers and non-alcoholic alternatives in a single shopping location, enhancing the overall shopping experience for those looking to create cocktails or enjoy non-alcoholic beverages.

  • Liquor Store Owners: Liquor store owners may see an increase in sales and foot traffic as they can offer a wider variety of products, potentially attracting customers who may not typically purchase alcohol.

Market Dynamics

  • Competition: The inclusion of these products in liquor stores may create competition with grocery stores and specialty shops that currently sell these items, potentially leading to price adjustments and promotional strategies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: The bill was introduced on January 08, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Investigations and Government Operations for further consideration.

  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session bills S 8944 and S 3568, as well as a companion bill A 6726, indicating ongoing legislative interest in the regulation of beverage sales.

Conclusion

Bill S 368 represents a legislative effort to modernize the offerings at liquor stores by allowing the sale of popular non-alcoholic products. If passed, it could enhance consumer convenience and potentially increase sales for liquor retailers. The bill is currently under review by the relevant committee, and its progress will be monitored as it moves through the legislative process.

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

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