LANSING, Mich. -- Big-box grocery stores such as Meijer can now sell beer and wine at their gas station/convenience stores under legislation signed by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.
Snyder's action earlier this month allows grocery store with nearby c-stores to count grocery supplies in other buildings toward meeting an alcohol-selling requirement, according to a report by the Associated Press.
Some lawmakers from rural districts and convenience-store owners say the legislation gives big businesses a leg up on the competition, letting them meet startup-capital requirements automatically.
Rep. Ray Franz, who opposed the bill. said the change is a "carve out" for the big retailers.
Bill sponsor Aric Nesbitt said it allows for a "more open, more competitive marketplace," according to the report.
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