Package Store Owners: We Are Fighting For Our Lives.

HARTFORD ? Hundreds of package store owners descended on the Capitol complex Tuesday in what is becoming an annual pilgrimage to protest what they see as the governor?s efforts to make it harder for them to stay in business. At least 500 retailers and wholesalers jammed the first-floor atrium of the Legislative Office Building in advance of a public hearing on a so-called minium pricing bill proposed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy they believe will give large chains a distinct advantage over the smaller family-owned neighborhood package stores. Store owners said under the governor?s proposal, chain stores with the money to purchase large quantities could undercut smaller stores in the long run, because of their inventory. At package stores in the region, the verdict was unanimous ? if the bill passes, it?ll mean tough times ahead for scores of people, both in and out of the liquor business, not to mention their customers.


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