You can click here to view the PDF.
May 17, 2017
The Honorable Rick Scott
Governor of Florida
Plaza 05, The Capitol
400 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001
Dear Governor Scott,
On behalf of the Independent Women’s Voice, a 501(c)(4) organization for mainstream women, men and families, we are writing this letter in support of SB 106/HB 81, which would repeal the antiquated Alcohol Separation Law and allow grocery stores and other retailers to sell liquor in the same space as other products.
As a parent, I firmly believe passing this legislation would not lead to increased underage drinking. I’ve seen arguments by the opposition stating if liquor is sold in grocery stores, minors would have “unchecked” access – however, parents are perfectly capable of monitoring their own children and teaching them to respect property and alcohol laws.
Furthermore, spirits are no more dangerous than beer and wine. A standard serving of spirits, beer, and wine contains the exact same amount of alcohol. Understanding this proven, scientific fact is a critical aspect of responsible consumption.
There is simply no reason to believe that offering liquor, along with beer and wine, in grocery stores would lead to more dangerous behavior, such as underage drinking. In fact, researchers found that underage drinking rates have gone down after Washington state repealed its ban on selling spirits in grocery stores.
I have also read various news articles suggesting citizens are not clamoring for the repeal, scoffing at the idea that some shoppers would welcome the convenience of buying liquor at a grocery store. Busy moms disagree. Moms prefer one-stop shopping and deserve this basic convenience.
We strongly encourage you to sign SB 106/HB 81 into law and give Floridians the same convenience enjoyed by 29 other states in the country.
Respectfully,
Julie Gunlock
Senior Fellow
Independent Women’s Voice