By: Trey Mills

In an effort to protect small businesses, Governor Scott vetoed the highly controversial Senate Bill 106 on May 24th.  The bill would have eliminated the “liquor wall” law that requires physical separation between areas used for the sale of spirits and the sale of other retail goods.  Large retailers such as Target, Costco and Walmart argued that the bill would improve customer convenience.  In contrast, independent liquor-store owners, including ABC Fine Wine & Spirits and Publix Super Markets, argued that Senate Bill 106 would damage small businesses and eliminate jobs.  The Senate and the House narrowly passed the bill by 21-17 and 58-57 margins, respectively.  In electing to veto Senate Bill 106, the Governor expressed concern over the bill’s potential impact on small business owners and their families.