MN Beer Shutdown: Liquor Stores Closing Doors

Spurned on by an impasse between Democratic Governor Mark Dayton and Republican legislators, it appears as though the Minnesota government shutdown may turn into a Minnesota beer shutdown.

As of July 1, when the government shut its doors, at least 300 bars, restaurants and liquor stores have been unable to renew their state alcohol buyer's cards, leaving them with dwindling supplies.

Now they may have to shut their doors.

As a result of the government shutdown, the state's Alcohol and Gambling department is running with minimal staff, reports CNN. More specifically, Bloomberg reports that the employees responsible for license renewal have been laid off.

While those who have lapsed buyer's cards can't purchase beer and liquor, they can still sell it. However, as their supplies dwindle, it will become unprofitable to remain open.

The impending Minnesota beer shutdown is also affecting small businesses in another, more roundabout way.

Due to a mix-up, MillerCoors LLC has not renewed brand-label registrations on 39 of its products, reports CNN. It must now pull these products from the shelves or face violating the law.

While the company contemplates taking legal action, small businesses that sell their products will be still left with significantly less selection.

At this juncture, there's really not much that can be done about the overall shutdown besides encouraging legislators to make a deal.

However, it is wise to heed some basic legal advice in this situation.

Even if it seems like a great way to get through the Minnesota beer shutdown, do not illegally purchase alcohol. And don't try to sell it either.

Related Resources:

• Minnesota Beer, Booze Sellers' Supplies Run Low Due To State Shutdown (NPR)
• Utah's Happy Hour Ban: Liquor Lawsuit Filed (FindLaw's Law & Daily Life)
• Pennsylvania Introduces State-Owned Wine Vending Machines (FindLaw's Legally Weird)