We are signing the below petition to encourage Gov. John Hickenlooper to sign SB 16-197, the Colorado Liquor Compromise.

As a small business owner who owns a convenience store in Colorado, I have worked toward an evolution of Colorado liquor laws for years. We have started moving toward a ballot initiative that would immediately allow us to sell full strength beer in our stores. While we want the ability to sell full strength beer, we also understand that Colorado has a complicated system and our other small business owners - liquor stores - need some time to adapt. Because of this, we came to the table to negotiate for SB16-197. The legislation will allow a three-year phase in for sales of full strength beer in convenient stores. In addition, the bill tasks a working group to navigate the dynamics of the transition and propose legislation to ensure a smooth transition.

Because of these components of SB16-197, the Colorado Petroleum Marketers Association, representing 1800 businesses throughout the state, wholeheartedly supports the liquor compromise. We have agreed that upon the signature of the legislation, we will pull our ballot initiative and work against any additional ballot measures. While a ballot issue is not the best way to promote public policy, we are frustrated. I truly believe our efforts to compromise with our small business colleagues deserves your support.

We urge Gov. Hickenlooper to sign SB16-197. It is a measured compromise that will responsibly give Colorado consumers their wants by evolving our dated liquor laws, and provide support for all of our Colorado businesses.