State law makers consider ridding of state-owned liquor stores - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

HARRISBURG, Penn. - State law makers are considering doing away with state-owned liquor stores in the state. You would then be able to buy alcohol in places like supermarkets and other privately owned stores.

For decades the state has only sold wine and liquor at state-owned stores. Larger quantities of beer are sold through distributors and only select items at privately owned grocery stores.

The governor aims to change that. A proposed bill would give beer distributors the first shot at about 12,000 wine and spirit licenses and open grocery stores to wine sales.

"The way Ohio does it with the supermarkets and think like that it really works out well for the consumer," said Roger Anthony of Hermitage.

The governor suggests any proceeds the state gets from the deal benefit the public education system. But the amount of money is uncertain.

Although the idea may seem a lot more convienient, some just dont see it that way.

According to the union that represents liquor store employees, the bill would jeopardize the jobs of about 20,000 employees who work at both Wine and Spirit Stores, as well as beer distributors.

"There are people's jobs involve and the unemployment rate is high enough.  There is enough problem with the government sticking it's nose in private business and I think they should back off," said Michael Russo of Sharpsville.