Bill that would allow full strength beer to be sold in grocery stores advances

Colorado’s unusual ban on full-strength beer in grocery stores is one step away from heading to the governor.

The House voted 57-7 in favor of a bill to allow grocery stores to carry full-strength beer, wine and liquor by 2037. Until then, the grocers would slowly be granted more liquor licenses, though in many cases they’ll have to buy liquor licenses from existing liquor stores.

Lawmakers describe the bill as a way to update Colorado’s antiquated beer restrictions, while still protecting the state’s thousands of small liquor stores.

Senators must agree to small changes, then the measure heads to the governor’s desk. Gov. John Hickenlooper is expected to sign the change into law.