MN HF1848

Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article XIII of the Minnesota Constitution to permit the legislature to authorize grocery stores, convenience stores, and other food retailers to sell wine and beer as prescribed by law.

The proposed amendment must be submitted to Minnesota voters at the 2024 general election with a yes/no question on the ballot.

Defines "food retailer" as a for-profit, not-for-profit, or cooperative self-service retail establishment selling bread, bakery items, meats, seafood, produce, dairy products, and packaged groceries, including supermarkets, corner stores, and convenience stores.

Authorizes cities to issue off-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to food retailers, allowing them to sell malt liquor and wine; exempts food retailer licenses from population-based limitations on off-sale licenses that apply to exclusive liquor stores.

Permits persons under age 21 to enter food retailers licensed for off-sale under this bill, and prohibits local ordinances from restricting such entry; all statutory changes become effective upon voter adoption of the constitutional amendment.