The Connecticut Package Store Association predicts hundreds of small liquor stores will close if the legislation passes.
A large crowd of package store owners has gathered at the state Capitol to oppose the governor's proposal to eliminate minimum pricing rules in Connecticut for certain alcoholic beverages.
The turnout for Tuesday's General Law Committee public hearing was among the largest this session for a legislative hearing.
Current state law prohibits retailers from selling bottles of alcoholic liquor other than beer below a minimum price.
Democratic Governor Dannel P. Malloy says that's unfair to consumers and harms state revenues. Many store owners disagree.
Nick Conti, who owns Sav-Rite Liquors in North Haven, says prices in Connecticut are competitive with other states.
The Connecticut Package Store Association predicts hundreds of small liquor stores will close if the legislation passes and only the larger stores will benefit.
