Here's Why Northfield's Rep Voted No On Sunday Liquor Sales

Last month, the Minnesota House of Representatives voted to repeal Minnesota’s prohibition on Sunday liquor sales by a vote of 85-45. Earlier this week, on a vote of 38-28, the Minnesota Senate passed HF 30, which would make off-sale intoxicating liquor sales on Sundays legal.

In a statement, Northfield's DFL Rep. David Bly explained why he voted against lifting the prohibition in the Minnesota House

"Some of you may be wondering why I changed my vote from yes to no this year," Bly said in a recent statement. "It’s clear to me that this initiative will pass and eventually become law, but I am still troubled by the way that our smaller retail outlets and family owned businesses may be affected by these changes."

"When Colorado recently passed approved liquor sales on Sunday, they saw thousands of small liquor stores close," Bly continued. "I wish we could find an easier way to balance the competing needs of the desire to purchase alcohol on Sunday’s with those of our Main Street businesses."

Next Steps For Sunday Liquor Sales Bill

The differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill lifting the ban on Sunday liquor sales will have to be reconciled before it heads to Gov. Mark Dayton's desk.

Dayton has said he will sign a law allowing Sunday sales.

If signed into law, liquor stores could begin opening on Sundays in July, WCCO reported.

Image via Minnesota House of Representatives (Rep. David Bly)