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Nashville, TN - In a move that has been long awaited by consumers and retailers alike, Tennessee Governor John Smith signed a bill into law today allowing grocery stores to sell wine on Sundays. The bill, which passed through both chambers of the Tennessee General Assembly last week, marks a significant shift in the state's liquor laws.Prior to the passage of this bill, Tennessee law prohibited the sale of wine in grocery stores on Sundays, a restriction that has been in place for decades. However, with changing consumer preferences and increasing demand for convenience, lawmakers felt it was time to revise the outdated policy.Under the new law, grocery stores in Tennessee will be able to sell wine on Sundays from noon until 10 p.m. This change is expected to not only benefit consumers who can now purchase wine on their grocery shopping trips, but also boost revenue for retailers who have been losing out on potential sales due to the Sunday sales restriction.Governor Smith praised the bipartisan effort that went into passing the bill, stating that it was a positive step forward for both consumers and businesses in Tennessee. "I am pleased to sign this bill into law, as it will provide greater convenience and choice for our citizens while also supporting our local businesses," he said.The Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association also applauded the decision, stating that it will help level the playing field for retailers who have been at a disadvantage compared to neighboring states with more lenient liquor laws.While some critics have raised concerns about potential negative impacts on small liquor store owners, supporters argue that the change reflects the evolving preferences of consumers and the need to modernize Tennessee's liquor laws.The new law allowing grocery stores to sell wine on Sundays will go into effect starting January 1, 2026, giving retailers time to adjust their operations and prepare for the increased demand expected on Sundays.