Minnesota's budget

Shutdown cutting off the flow of alcohol

by Cathy Wurzer, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — About 300 bars, restaurants and liquor stores around Minnesota are unable to buy alcohol right now because of the government shutdown. A court appointed referee overseeing the shutdown will take up their case today.

The alcohol retailers are asking for the court to authorize a single, part-time clerk to process applications for so-called 'buyer's cards,' so they can start purchasing alcohol again.

Frank Ball, the executive director of the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association, discussed the situation with Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, 07/12/2011, 7:45 a.m.
• Morning Edition, 07/12/2011, 7:45 a.m.