New bill could allow for sale of wine at New York grocery stores

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A new bill recently introduced in the New York State Senate could soon allow for the sale of wine in grocery stores across New York State.

The bill, introduced by State Senator George Borrello (R-57), states that wine can be sold in stores, but the wines would have to be produced in New York or made with ingredients produced or grown in the state.

Under current law, the sale of wine in grocery stores is prohibited. Several different pieces of legislation have been proposed over the years, but none have passed. Liquor store owners have opposed the idea, fearing that it would hurt their businesses.

"To me, this is a compromise," Borrello said. "This is a compromise that recognizes the fact that we cannot hurt our small, independent retailers across New York state that would be devastated if all wines were sold in New York. At the same time, it will support New York-based wineries, and certainly our grape growers."

Tops supermarkets said that it would be in favor of the change, saying that it would "further enhance [their] customers' shopping experience."

As of Thursday morning, the bill is still in the State Senate committee. It would have to be passed by both the New York State Senate and the Assembly before heading to Governor Kathy Hochul's desk to be signed into law.