Jan. 31, 2013. Today, Rep. J.R. Claeys, R-Salina, requested the House Taxation Committee introduce the Expansion of Free Markets and Public Sector Deregulation Act - the 2013 version of the Big Box Liquor bill promoted by grocery and convenience stores.  Introducing the bill in the Taxation Committee makes the bill exempt from deadlines, although the bill is expected to be assigned to the House Commerce Committee.

The day began with a crowd of Dillons managers and employees gathered in the Statehouse rotunda, then dispersing to meet with individual legislators. On Tuesday, it was the Hy-Vee luncheon for all legislators as well as a briefing. See notes here.

The legislation is not yet available to the public. Once it is drafted and released, we will make copies available here. The House Commerce Committee is expected to schedule public hearings in two weeks or so. This allows a short period of time for you to have a meaningful conversation with your legislators before the bill could start moving through the House. Find contact information for legislators at www.kslegislature.org.

It is imperative that retailers plan to come to Topeka to meet with legislators in person as soon as possible. Plan now to come to Topeka for the public hearings later this month, as well. Uncork Kansas is putting on a show of force in the Statehouse with dozens of lobbyists declaring that consumers are demanding convenience.

Legislators must hear from the hundreds of people who will be negatively affected by corporate liquor deregulation - including the many other businesses who count on local small businesses, your insurance agent, your banker, your POS vendor, and your landlord. Read about it.

At this point, there is no bill in the Senate. It appears the Senate is not interested in entertaining a Big Box Liquor bill unless it passes the House of Representatives.

Come to Topeka to Meet with Legislators - schedule appointments with your legislators for Monday or any day you can make it to Topeka. If you need help, contact Amy by email or phone 785-969-1617.

Monday, February 4, KABR will present comments to the KLEAR organization during their luncheon meeting at the Statehouse. Retailers are encourage to attend - see below.

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