Montgomery, Ala. – The effort to expand the availability of ready-to-drink mixed spirits in Alabama has gained support from stakeholders, including Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, the sponsor of the latest bill, Senate Bill 268. The bill would allow premixed cocktails to be sold at gas stations and grocery stores, with an alcohol by volume cap of 7% and a state-imposed tax. Previous versions of the bill faced opposition due to franchise laws regulating relationships between suppliers and wholesalers.
However, the latest version of the bill has gained support from beer distributors and the Alabama Beverage Association due to compromise language that would allow for soft drink wholesalers and distributors to enter the market. While the bill has not gained universal support, retailers have expressed strong demand for RTD spirits in their stores.
Supporters of the bill believe it is time to expand access to RTD spirits in the state, despite remaining opposition from some stakeholders. The House version of the bill is scheduled to be voted on in the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee.
Sen. Singleton remains committed to pushing the bill forward, emphasizing the importance of expanding access to RTD spirits for consumers. The compromise language in the latest version of the bill has addressed concerns raised by stakeholders, paving the way for potential passage through the Legislature this year.
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