At Rest bill could increase liquor prices

Some businesses are concerned that a plan to use wine and spirits to increase jobs and tax revenue across the state could mean higher prices for consumers.

The At Rest bill is being considered in Albany and would require all alcoholic beverages produced out of state to be stored at a NY warehouse for 48 hours before delivery.

Supporters of the bill say that it would create more jobs due to the need for more warehouses.

Michael Skurnik, of Michael Skurnik Wines in Syosset, says the bill will severely limit choice and will increase the cost of wine to consumers to $2 a bottle minimum. He says it will also cause a lot of small wine companies to go out of business in New York.

"If it were us, we would probably have to fire some people," he says.