Sunday alcohol sales ban debate is back in Indiana statehouse

Big-box grocery chains and liquor store lobbyists continue to scuffle over the latest attempt to lift Indiana’s longtime ban on Sunday carryout alcohol sales.

An Indiana House committee heard testimony Wednesday on the new bill, which would require grocery and convenience stores to keep alcohol in separated areas and away from toys, school supplies and candy.

Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers president Patrick Tamm says the liquor store owners he represents oppose the change because it would lead to less regulation of alcohol sales.

Grocery chains say lifting the ban would provide greater convenience for customers, while liquor store owners maintain that groceries are trying to grab a greater share of alcohol sales.

The House Public Policy Committee could vote on the proposal next week.