By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Despite a “really big push” by ‘Uncork Kansas,’ Rep. Sue Boldra, R-Hays, “does not think the issue will come up for a vote” when state lawmakers return to Topeka Wednesday.

‘Uncork Kansas’ presented testimony March 31 in favor of Senate Bill 298 in the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee.

“Kansans deserve the opportunity to benefit on tangible things such as better pricing, convenience, an improved shopping experience, and increased selections that this free market legislation affords,” said Ken DeLuca, vice president of Dillons Food Stores.

The bill is considered a “county option” bill, meaning voters in each Kansas county would have the opportunity to vote in a general election to decide whether adult beverages can be sold in grocery and convenience stores within the county.

Rep. Boldra is opposed to the county option.

“I think it would be too divisive, too irregular and would be hard to control,” she said.

“The two big ‘giants’ (Kroger and QuikTrip) that would win in this case, don’t even have headquarters in Kansas,” Boldra said.

“So the little guys–the small liquor stores in Hays, Ellis and Victoria–would certainly be in jeopardy.  There are about 54 employees in these local liquor stores.  I doubt if the big-box stores would hire them.”

“I’ve always said I’m pro-business, but I’m also a fan of small business, and they know I will vote no,” Boldra said.

The Uncork Kansas measure would permit grocery and convenience stores to sell regular strength beer and also allow grocery stores to purchase a liquor license from an existing owner to sell retail wine and spirits.

Earlier this year, a Kansas House committee passed Uncork Kansas legislation–HB2200–without the county-by-county option.

Both the Senate and the House will consider Uncork Kansas measures when the legislature reconvenes Wednesday, April 28, following their spring break.

To read Senate Bill 298 , click here.