Kansas legislators are at home for spring break until April 29 when they will return to Topeka to attempt to reconcile the proposed state budget with revenue reductions.  Today, the Consensus Revenue Estimating Group forecast additional reductions for state revenues - deepening the fiscal hole.  This could mean an extended Veto Session - leaving plenty of time for additional action on legislation that failed to advance during the regular session...including Big Box Liquor.

KABR has teamed with KS Association for Responsible Liquor Laws, KS Wine and Spirits Wholesalers, and Keep Kansans in Business to send a joint letter to legislators prior to their return.  Read the letter.  Retailers should also reach out to legislators at home during this time - see tips at http://kansasretailer.org.  

SB 298 is similar to HB 2200 as it came out of the House Commerce Committee.  However, the bill includes a county option for corporate chain liquor sales – either by county commission resolution or by petition and election.  It also seems to forego the three year delay for big box and grocery stores where a local election adopts corporate chain sales.  Read SB 298 here.

The Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee is not likely to vote on SB 298, which means that Uncork may make a move to be amended into other liquor bills that will be debated on the Senate floor. 

HB 2200 awaits action after being sent back to the House Commerce Committee for more work.  Uncork proponents are working to gain votes for the bill with the addition of a local option requirement or strong beer amendment.

It is very important to know if your legislators will support Uncork with either of these amendments.  If legislators maintain their opposition to Big Box Liquor, HB 2200 could remain in committee.