Could looking at the beer case cause a few double takes in Maryland soon? Governor Martin O'Malley is holding off on a bill that would label carbonated alcoholic beverages like Smirnoff Ice in the same category as beer.
If
O'Malley signs off on the bill carbonated alcoholic beverages would be allowed to be sold side by side with beer in convenience stores. That is striking a sour note with some groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
What's at stake is a ton of money for the manufacturers and the Maryland State government. If these alcoholic canned drinks are in the same grouping as beer they will be taxed at 9 cents a gallon. With liquor at $1.50 a gallon the companies are hoping that the government lightens up the classification.
Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler is leaning for keeping the status quo since the canned drinks at still at the core distilled spirits.
"They are no more beer than hot chocolate is," He said.
With money on the line the chances are favorable that drinks like Smirnoff Ice will stay at the liquor store instead of the local 7/11.
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Could Smirnoff Ice Be Sold At 7/11 In Maryland?
David Silverberg
