House passes bill, Senate to debate

by Tammy Leytham

The Selma Times-Journal

On May 2, the Alabama House passed a bill clearing the way for 14 Alabama cities &045; including Selma &045; to call for referendums on legalizing Sunday liquor sales.

The bill passed the House 59-28. It now goes to the Senate for debate.

Mayor James Perkins Jr. said, &8220;let the people vote&8221; in regards to a referendum being put before citizens.

Sunday liquor sales would &8220;definitely&8221; increase business at the Selma Curb Market, which sells beer and wine, said Peggy Tharp, night manager.

David Raney of Bob’s Grocery on Old Orrville Road said everyone’s business would increase if voters approved Sunday liquor sales. &8220;I don’t see why they won’t,&8221; he said. &8220;The rest of the state does.&8221;

During House debate, some members said allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays would increase tourism, while others expressed concern over the evils of drinking alcoholic beverages.

Rep. DuWayne Brides, R-Valley, said Sunday should be served for going to church, not for drinking.

However, Perkins said the issue should not be a moral one.

The 14 cities affected by the proposed legislation are Selma, Gadsden, Tuscaloosa, Anniston, Athens, Alexander City, Decatur, Dothan, Enterprise, Florence, Talladega, Ozark, Sheffield and Sylacauga.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.