MONTGOMERY — Legislators unveiled a tentative proposal to be considered in the upcoming session that would allow pre-made mixed drink beverages to be sold in grocery and convenience stores in Alabama.
Mixed spirit beverages are currently taxed as liquor, with distribution limited to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC Board) and retail sales limited to ABC stores and package stores.
A legislative committee studying Alabama's laws related to ready-to-drink cocktails met at the State House on Tuesday.
"Right now, it's only sold in the ABC stores, so now we're trying to expand it to retail grocery stores [and] convenience stores. That's what we're looking at…making an expansion," State Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro) told 1819 News after the meeting.
The bill defines mixed spirit beverages as a drink containing liquor in a single-serve container no larger than 12 ounces with no more than 12.5% alcohol.
It would also expand the sale of mixed spirit beverages from the ABC Board and package stores to any retail outlet licensed by the board to sell beer, table wine, or liquor. It would also levy an excise tax of $.98 per 12 ounces on mixed-spirited beverages.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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