It’s time to start the discussion on modernizing our ABC liquor laws

North Carolina’s liquor laws were written in 1937 following Prohibition and they have been stuck there ever since.

Today, our state is a fast-growing, economic powerhouse.  Yet, we still Nort

Free Our Spirits NC is a grassroots campaign rising up from the voters to call for change in how our state regulates and operates our ABC liquor system.

It’s time to start the discussion on building a modern ABC system.  Here are some cornerstones to change that need to be debated:

·      Retail sales for liquors and spirits providing more choices and more convenience for consumers

·      Building a modern wholesale delivery system to better serve our restaurant, bar and hospitality industry

·      Establishing one ABC Board per county, eliminating unnecessary duplication and bureaucratic bloat, saving millions of dollars in the ABC system

·      Ensuring local non-profit organizations continue to receive funding for alcohol education and rehabilitation services

We don’t pretend to have all the answers, but we do know it’s time to have the debate.  It’s important for the NC General Assembly to take a long look at modernizing our ABC liquor laws.

Currently, more than $690 million a year is generated in taxes from liquor sales.  These monies are going to state, county and local governments. We believe that modernizing our liquor laws will actually increase tax revenues.

It’s imperative that we make sure those new revenues are directed by the local ABC boards so they can continue their mission of supporting non-profit organizations that serve as an important resource for alcohol education and healthcare services.

We see a new system that ensures a role for the existing ABC boards but streamlining those boards to one per county.  In many communities, the ABC Boards may decide to continue retail operations.  As the state deals with the growing cannabis issue, there may be a built-in structure to use the ABC system for regulated sales of THC products.

Our point is plain and simple – it’s time to start having these discussions.  We need to look to the future and find ways to better serve our changing and growing population.