New York lawmakers have re‑introduced legislation aimed at allowing grocery stores across the state to sell wine, a move that has been debated in Albany for years.
The bill, sponsored by State Senator Liz Krueger and Assemblymember Pam Hunter, would amend current state liquor laws that now limit off‑premises wine sales to liquor stores and package shops. Under the proposal, licensed grocery stores could sell wine alongside beer and food items—bringing New York more in line with about 40 other states that permit such sales.
The legislation is part of a broader effort this session to modernize the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control laws, though it is not currently part of state budget negotiations, meaning its fate remains uncertain as lawmakers negotiate other priorities.
Supporters of the plan argue it would benefit consumers and boost local grocery businesses by offering more convenience and choice, and could expand markets for New York’s wineries. Opponents, including thousands of liquor store owners, argue that allowing grocery stores to sell wine could hurt small, independent retailers that currently rely on wine sales for revenue.
A separate proposal would go even further by allowing grocery stores to sell both wine and distilled spirits, but that measure has also not been folded into the state’s budget talks.
Under current New York law, grocery and convenience stores can sell beer but are barred from selling bottles of wine or spirits for off‑premises consumption, a restriction that dates back to post‑Prohibition liquor regulations.
