So I was happy to see state lawmakers propose legislation that would allow consumers to purchase distilled spirits in the same store where they can buy wine and beer, something already allowed in 34 other states. I figured repealing it would be a no-brainer, like last year when the Legislature abolished regulatory burdens such as the law mandating a 10 percent ethanol blend in gasoline, and the one requiring foreign visitors to have an international driving permit.
Last week, however, one of the sponsors of the bill, Sen. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, announced the legislation was dead, killed by intense lobbying from liquor-store chains and convenience-store interests that like things just as they are. So much for free enterprise.
Via Brown: Spirit of crony capitalism still alive @ TBO.com.