Rogue Liquor Store Agrees to $50,000 Fine for Sunday Opening

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minneapolis liquor store Surdyk's has agreed to pay a much larger fine than first envisioned for jumping the gun on a state law allowing Sunday sales.

Jim Surdyk opened his store on Sunday, March 12. That was after lawmakers repealed Minnesota's ban on Sunday alcohol sales — but well before the repeal takes effect July 2. Last month, a City Council committee rejected as too lenient a proposed $6,000 fine and 10-day license suspension.

The latest deal calls for Surdyk's to pay $50,000, but it would be closed only three Sundays — July 2, 9, and 16.

If a City Council committee approves the proposal Tuesday, it would go to the full council.

Surdyk would have to pay the penalty by May 31.