BILL TO ALLOW BEER, WINE SALES IN GROCERY STORES

Lawmakers in Annapolis are considering measures that would allow grocery stores to sell beer and wine.  To qualify grocery stores would have to be located in priority funding areas and meet criteria like carrying a full line of food products. Supporters say the measure would entice businesses to open in food deserts and bring healthy food options to residents.  Opponents say it tries to solve a public health problem by bringing in another public health problem.