‘Whiskey And Wheaties’ Bill Vetoed By Gov. Scott

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida’s so-called “Liquor Wall” stands. Gov. Rick Scott on Wednesday vetoed a bill that would have made it legal for some grocery and big box retailers to display and sell liquor from their grocery aisles.

The controversial “Whiskey and Wheaties” bill cleared both the Florida House and Senate by narrow margins in April. The House approved it by a single vote with a tally that ended up at 58-57. The bill fared only slightly better in the Senate where it passed 21-17.

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Scott cited concerns for small business owners in a letter explaining the veto sent to Secretary of State Kenneth W. Detzner. Scott said he listened to arguments on both sides and understands “that both positions have merit.” Even so, Scott wrote, “I have heard concerns as to how this bill could affect many small businesses across Florida.”

Had Scott signed the bill, it would have gone into effect next year and been phased in over the course of three years. Eventually, it would have enabled retailers who sell groceries to also sell liquor and spirits within 75 percent of their stores across the state.

The bill had been pushed by retailers like Target and Walmart. Publix came out against the measure, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Proponents of the bill said Florida’s law requiring that liquor be sold separately from other goods is outdated.

Rep. Bryan Avila told the Sentinel the bill simply removes a post-Prohibition-era law that was meant to “ease the sale of alcohol back into society.” That law, the Republican from Hialeah said, “has outlived its day.”

Scott, it seems, did not agree.

Photo from Gov. Rick Scott's Facebook page