HB 4: Increase the number of liquor store permits you can have

By Mississippi Center for Public Policy
January 27, 2020

House Bill 4, sponsored by Rep. Brent Powell, would increase the number of liquor store retail permits that an individual can own from one to three. 

Currently, no person, either individually or through a firm, partnership, or LLC, shall own or control interest in more than one permit for liquor stores. This limits a person’s ability to earn a living and run a business, while also limiting competition and consumer choice. 

This, however, is just one small part of the state’s desire to regulate, and in many cases, prohibit, legal alcohol sales in the state. 

While the internet, technological developments, and more have made the purchase and production of alcohol freer and easier in other states, Mississippi has denied its citizens personal liberty on this issue. 

The state has discouraged craft beer production, overregulated alcohol distribution, and cracked down on the ability for citizens to privately produce alcohol. Permits are difficult to secure, and thus many businesses have been left in the dark, unable to expand or operate. 

Mississippi could make considerable strides by entrusting in its citizens a greater personal responsibility and freedom when it comes to alcohol sale and production. 

There is much the state could do, but this is a step in the right direction. 

MCPP has reviewed this legislation and finds that it is aligned with our principles and therefore should be supported. 

Read the bill here.

Track the status of this bill and all bills in our legislative tracker

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