SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5261
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 12, 2013
Title: An act relating to liquor self-checkout machines.
Brief Description: Prohibiting certain liquor self-checkout machines.
Sponsors: Senators Conway, Keiser, Hasegawa, Chase, Nelson, Kline, Darneille and Kohl-Welles.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/11/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)
Background: Large grocery stores gained the ability to sell spirits at retail when the sale of spirits in Washington State became privatized in December 2011. These same grocery stores were already selling beer and wine. Many of these retail businesses utilize self-checkout systems that allow customers to scan and bag items themselves. Typically a store employee is available to assist customers or finalize the transaction.
Summary of Bill: Retailer are not permitted to sell spirits, beer, or wine through a self-checkout machine or system.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: These machines are a problem, there are not enough employees to watch them. Staff have limited accountability.
CON: The Liquor Control Borard has indicated that there have been no incidents of theft involving these machines. We have sold beer and wine for ten years with these systems and there have not been problems. We could amend the bill to do a hard stop on these purchases.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Conway, prime sponsor; Sharon Ness, United Food and Commercial Workers Union.
CON: Holly Chisa NW Grocery Assn.; Mark Johnson, WA Retail Assn.