Minnesota latest to do away with alcohol 'blue laws'

Thirty-nine down, 11 to go. Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton has signed legislation doing away with a Prohibition-era "blue law." The act makes his state the latest to allow Sunday spirits sales, and the 17th to make that move since 2002.

“Governor Dayton listened to Minnesota consumers who overwhelmingly wanted the choice and convenience of purchasing alcohol when shopping on Sunday,” said Dale Szyndrowski, vice president of the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS). "Minnesotans will now be able to purchase alcohol locally on the second busiest shopping day of the week. This law benefits consumers, local businesses and the economy, which is something that everyone can toast.”

According to an economic analysis by DISCUS, statewide Sunday sales of alcohol in Minnesota could generate between $10.8 and $15.1 million in new tax revenues. In addition, Sunday sales would increase Minnesota sales volume by an estimated 5 to 7% annually, which translates to $81.8 to $114.5 million in new retail sales.

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