New York's alcohol laws could be changing

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Changes may be coming to New York state's alcohol laws.

A panel created by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to study changes to the 80-year-old set of regulations released recommendations Wednesday to modernize and simplify the rules governing when and where alcohol may be sold.

The panel's recommendations include a "complete reorganization" of the alcoholic beverage control law to make it easier for consumers and merchants. The group also called for a simpler licensing system for bars and restaurants to reduce the number of licenses from nine to three.

Finally, the panel suggests allowing bars and restaurants to sell alcohol earlier than noon on Sunday, and taking steps to promote the state's growing alcohol manufacturing industry.

The recommendations now go to Cuomo and state lawmakers for review.