COLUMBUS, GA (AP) -
A referendum to legalize Sunday alcohol sales in Columbus has met opposition from an unexpected source: liquor stores.
Ralph Smith, the owner of Mr. B's liquor store, tells the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer he isn't convinced he'd generate enough new sales to offset the costs of opening his shop seven days a week instead of six.
He says he wouldn't be able to close up shop, either, because he'd have to stay open to compete with other stores opening a seventh day.
Christian groups are also opposing the referendum that would allow the Columbus City Council to OK Sunday sales. They call it an issue of public safety.
However, a group that represents Georgia convenience stores says allowing Sunday liquor sales could help keep customers in the state, rather than traveling to nearby Alabama on Sundays.
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