ST PAUL, Minn. — For years, the fight to sell stronger beer in Minnesota convenience stores has failed. But a new bill at the Capitol is trying, once again, to change the law.

Right now, most alcohol has to be sold in liquor stores — only what’s called “three-two beer,” or beer containing just 3.2% alcohol by weight or 4% by volume, is allowed in other places like grocery and convenience stores.

Minnesota is the last state with a three-two law that supporters call antiquated, saying the bill would give consumers more options. Opponents argue people don’t have problems getting alcohol and it will ultimately hurt small businesses. 

“The change, in some ways, is somewhat simple,” said Bruce Nustad, president of the Minnesota Retailers Association. “We just want to see a little bit more clarity, convenience and options for consumers and beer producers.” 

Nustad’s group represents 1,200 stores. He says it’s time to modernize a law he calls a relic of prohibition that limits alcoholic drinks to liquor stores.

The bill had its first hearing on Tuesday in the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection committee that controls liquor laws. The Senate Commerce Committee Chair Matt Klein argued that people want better, local beer that can already be sold at town baseball games and since 2017, seven days a week. 

“Essentially, this bill hurts the little guys and makes an unlevel playing field,” said Jennifer Schoenzeit, owner of Zipps Liquor in Minneapolis. She says allowing alcohol everywhere isn’t necessary and that 220 grocery and convenience stores already sell strong beer. 

“There’s no research that suggests Minnesota consumers have an issue with access to alcohol,” says Brandt Erwin who represents Minnesota Beer Wholesalers. 

The issue has been brought to the legislature for years — and has stalled every time. Nustad hopes this year is different, especially as consumer’s tastes continue to evolve. 

“We are going to see this change in Minnesota at some point; we hope it’s sooner than later,” said Nustad. 

The grocery and convenience stores that can sell stronger beer are allowed to for several reasons, including being sold in separate areas with separate entrances, and store chains can only get one license per city.

This bill would also leave it up to each city on whether it even wants to administer a license to those stores looking to expand their products. 

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