'Brunch Bill' Allowing Earlier Sunday Alcohol Sales Clears Senate

Sunday mornings in North Carolina could soon get more bubbly under legislation that cleared the North Carolina Senate Thursday.

Senate Bill 155, nicknamed the “Brunch Bill,” does a few things that should make booze connoisseurs happy.

First, it permits local governments to allow alcohol sales as early as 10:00 a.m. on Sundays. Under current law, that time is noon.

But the bill also aims to boost the state's distilleries, a segment of the beverage market that's been exploding in North Carolina.

If SB 155 becomes law, distillers would be allowed to sell up to five bottles a year to people who tour their facilities. Right now, that limit is one.

It would also allow distillers to buy permits to hand out samples at special events.

State trade groups, including the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, say passing the bill would be a boon for business.

“Allowing earlier Sunday alcohol sales is a win-win for all. The ‘Brunch Bill' not only benefits the state's restaurants and hotels, it increases the number of brunch venues for patrons,” said association CEO Lynn Minges.

But some critics say it favors profit over religion, and that so-called “blue laws” should be respected. Rev. Mark Creech at the Christian Action League is among those lobbying against the bill.

“The reason the current law has existed for many years – prohibiting alcohol sales until after the noon hour – has largely been out of deference and respect for churches,” Creech writes on the CAL website. “SB 155 begs the question: Where is this respect now? Why is this respect now being withdrawn?”

The legislation now moves to the House for consideration.