Proposition 124 asks voters if they want to allow retail liquor stores to apply to state and local governments for the ability to be able to open additional locations. Some small liquor store owners say its approval might drive them out of business.
DENVER — Of the three alcohol-related ballot initiatives voters will face in November, Proposition 124 is likely the easiest to overlook. The question is simply not as appealing or as understandable as the measures dealing with alcohol delivery or wine in grocery stores.
Big Fella is the largest liquor store in the area; Ross says he even gets returning customers driving in from out of state to shop at his store. Now, he would love to open up a second location. However, C.R. 44.3.409 says the law only applies to those who owned their first retail liquor license before 2016.
Ross understands that this could create more competition, with more stores possibly being allowed to open up — particularly big box retailers. “This is really frustrating for me, especially because as a child, I remember my father having this same battle,” she said. Joy also says this could potentially mean a lot more liquor stores in neighborhoods and a lot more alcohol overall in the community.Big Money Ballot Question