New push to allow N.J. grocery stores to sell alcohol

Trenton, N.J. New Jersey's growing budget troubles may open the door for a measure to allow supermarkets to sell beer and wine.

A bill allowing grocery stores to sell alcohol has been stalled in the Legislature since last year. Supporters are now trying to revive it, saying it could make the state money through increased sales and offer convenience to busy consumers.

A bill allowing grocery stores to sell alcohol has been stalled in the Legislature since last year. Supporters are now trying to revive it, saying it could make the state money through increased sales and offer convenience to busy consumers.

Smaller liquor storeowners fear the change would drive them out of business.

They said Corzine's proposed alcohol tax will cost the state $60 million a year in lost sales and that allowing grocery stores to sell alcohol won't help.

Forty-five other states allow grocery store liquor sales.

New York has also seen efforts to permit supermarkets to wine.

Grocery store chains said the proposal would add $160 million in revenues to the state in the first two years and save New Yorkers $80 million in lower prices through greater competition.

Advocates also claimed it would add 2,000 jobs and help New York wineries.

The New Jersey law was adopted in 1962 to prevent price fixing and monopolization and to address organized crime.