DENVER (AP) — Small liquor stores in Colorado are feeling the pinch of two laws that took effect in the past five years that expanded sales of full-strength beer to grocery stores and allowed bigger liquor retailers to dominate a market once reserved for mom and pop owners.
Now, the liberalization of alcohol regulations prompted by the pandemic — such as delivery and to-go cocktails — may become permanent if new legislation is approved, and existing laws will allow some retailers to add more affiliated liquor stores starting in 2022.
The Colorado Sun reports at least two major liquor bills are expected when lawmakers return for the session in February.
