"Tailgate bill" allows 6 a.m. alcohol sales

NEENAH - Have you ever wanted to buy alcohol before 8 a.m.? It may sound a little strange at first, but lawmakers say there is a demand. It's from tailgaters who are hitting the road.

Enjoying an adult beverage before a big game is something Wisconsinites have been doing for years.

"Clearly there is a tailgate factor," said State Rep. Dean Kaufert, R-Neenah. "I mean we're in Wisconsin. We love our tailgating. People love it."

Kaufert says he has heard from people who want to pick up their alcohol on their way out of town to a big game whether it's the Brewers, Badgers or Packers. He's also heard from the Wisconsin Grocers Association.

"They had found their members were asking them, times have changed and people's buying habits have changed. More and more people were buying early in the morning," said Kaufert.

Committees in both the State Senate and Assembly have approved the idea of allowing stores to sell liquor and beer at 6 a.m. Kaufert says both Republicans and Democrats have favored the bill, but not everyone wants it to become a law.

The Wisconsin Tavern League registered against the bill, however, no one from the Tavern League wanted to do an interview. A representative tells FOX 11 the issue is not a top priority for the organization.

"I think there is kind of a competition factor. Right now they're able to open at 6 a.m. and now if people can go the grocery store and buy it at 6 a.m., (there) is that competitive factor," said Kaufert.

"I really wouldn't have any desire to open up any earlier," said Chris Zirbel, Ridgeview Liquor owner. "As far as my store here, we'll be fine with the other stores opening at six."

The owner of Ridgeview Liquor says the bill is driven by big box and grocery stores. One of his customers believe beer should be for sale early, but not liquor.

"Beer I would have no problem selling 24 hours a day but liquor is more something people are getting to enjoy at home, or to me that's more serious drinking than just having a beer or something," said Evan Crawford.

Rep. Kaufert says legislative leaders will likely take up the bill this fall or spring, so if you have a strong opinion about it, now is the time to speak up.

Kaufert says at a hearing in Madison, a few people expressed a concern about greater availability of alcohol possibly leading to more traffic crashes. Kaufert says he does not see that becoming an issue.