Chairman of the Committee on Human Services Councilmember Jim Graham (D-Ward One) today held a public roundtable discussion on the possibility of a change in the law to allow Class-A licensees – liquor stores – to open and sell alcohol on Sundays.

Councilmember Graham has had oversight responsibility for alcohol regulation since 2005.

“I am both a strong supporter of business and a strong advocate for the concerns and quality of life issues in our neighborhoods.  It’s all about striking the right balance between those two considerations,” said Graham.

Councilmember Graham authored the Reimbursable Police Program, which has made a very positive contribution to increasing the safety in the neighborhoods in entertainment areas in the wee hours of the morning.  He also established the ABC working group in December 2011.  The group included representatives from government, including ABRA and the Metropolitan Police Department, as well as licensees and representatives from retailers and wholesalers and representatives from advisory neighborhood commissions and citizens’ associations.

“The working group has developed 43 recommendations.  Among those recommendations is to allow Sunday sales by Class-A licensees,” said Graham.

On May 8, Councilmember Graham held a hearing on those recommendations.  He intends to introduce omnibus legislation on alcohol licensing, sales and consumption based on the recommendations of the ABC working group before the summer recess.

The DC Office of Revenue Analysis estimates that a change in the law to allow Sunday sales would generate $710,000 annually.  There are between 220 and 230 Class-A licensees.  A change in the law would not affect Voluntary Agreements.