COLUMBUS, Ohio – A couple of central Ohio lawmakers – one Democrat, one Republican — want you to able to enjoy a beer or wine with dinner when you eat at the North Market, just like in what one of them calls “foodie-oriented” grocery stores.
The measure introduced by Reps. Michael Stinziano (D-Columbus) and Mike Duffey (R-Worthington) will allow a person “to possess beer or intoxicating liquor on the premises of the market” if it has been bought in the market.
“The North Market is central Ohio’s most beloved, historic and authentic ‘supermarket’,” said Duffey. “Yet, the average visitor cannot drink a beer with their meal, despite often being able to do so in chain supermarkets. This legislation will fix that problem, by providing central Ohioans the same options they have inside newer foodie-oriented supermarkets.”
They say the bill is a response to requests from North Market merchants.
“The North Market is one of the jewels in The Short North. We should do everything we can to promote the small business people working here,” Stinziano said.
HB 37 will allow a person “to possess beer or intoxicating liquor on the premises of the market if it has been purchased from a D liquor permit holder that is located in the market.”