The Massachusetts Package Stores Association has always prided itself on its ability to protect the businesses of the independent liquor store owner.  Together, and as individuals, we have kept our industry strong and profitable for small business owners.  This is not the situation in most industries.

Through our lobbying and grassroots efforts, we will continue to protect your business by defending the three-license ownership limit, current quota system and three-tier distribution system.  We will represent you at any and all legislative and regulatory hearings that affect the retail industry as a whole.   Also, we will work closely with other state organizations to prevent any expansion of the bottle bill or any increase in the deposit structure.  If at all possible, we will pass legislation to eliminate the bottle bill and replace it with mandatory curbside recycling.  In addition, we will defend against any attempts to increase taxes on alcohol. 

New legisltative initiatives for 2008 are:

• Institute minimum age requirement of 21 for all employees of section 15 off-premise licensees grandfathering current employees.

• Allow out-of-state licenses as proof of age

• Fair and equitable penalties for licensee infractions creating a level playing field for all licensees.   Penalties to include total store closure or fine assessed on total store sales.

From time to time we will solicit your help and ask you to contact your own local Representative and/or State Senator.  Please use the links below to gain access to your legislator’s address, statehouse telephone number, or e-mail. 

State Senators 

State Representatives

If you are not sure who represents you, call us at 800-322-1383.  We will be glad to assist you.

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