TOPEKA–A coalition of grocery stores and convenience marts has floated a new proposal for expanding liquor sales in Kansas saying it would generate a near-instant $41 million cash infusion toward the state’s budget deficit.

In a media release Friday from Uncork Kansas, proponents for adult beverage sales in grocery and convenience stores indicated their willingness to pay the state as much as $200,000 per store license for the opportunity to sell beer, wine, and spirits in grocery stores. For the state’s smallest grocery stores, the license buy-in would only be $10,000 per store, according to the release.

“We’re pleased to offer a revenue opportunity to the state’s leaders that could generate $40 million dollars without inflicting a tax increase on Kansans or a cut in services and programs,” said Jessica Lucas, spokesperson for Uncork Kansas.

“Economic growth happens through free enterprise. Our customers are ready for this change and we’re pleased to bring this free market solution to the Governor and legislature knowing it will infuse the Kansas budget with much needed cash.”

Officials say under the Uncork Kansas free market budget bailout, a one-time licensing fee per store would be paid by grocery stores to the State of Kansas for the opportunity to sell beer, wine, and spirits. An additional $6.5 million would be generated annually through the annual licensing fee.

-The Associated Press contributed to this report.