The House of Representatives has approved a bill that would allow retail sales of alcohol on Sundays, making Connecticut the 49th state that allows such purchases.
The vote was 116-27 on Thursday evening.
Some package store owners, who've lost a lot of business to neighboring states, applauded the move.
"Now I have a chance to compete with Massachusetts," said Angie Nguyen, who owns the State Line Package Store in Enfield.
Under the bill, the package stores will be allowed to sell some new products, including fresh fruits used to prepare mixed drinks, olives, cheese and crackers. However, lawmakers decided against allowing liquor stores to sell snack foods, such as candy, chips and nuts, after convenience store owners raised concerns.
The House passed the bill after two hours of debate.
Alcohol would be allowed to be sold on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on some holidays.
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"This is historic," Rep. Kathleen Tallarita said. "We changed Connecticut's oldest blue law we gave consumers more choice, more convenience."
Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy first proposed modernizing the state's liquor laws. However, some of his ideas that drew opposition, including changing the pricing system for alcohol, weren't included in the bill. The legislation creates a task force to look at pricing and permitting issues.
The bill also allows alcohol sales on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day.
It must still be approved by the State Senate.
