Topeka ? The chairman of a Kansas Senate committee expects the panel to vote next week on a bill to let grocery and convenience stores sell full-strength beer, wine and liquor.

Salina Republican Pete Brungardt said he’s scheduled a debate by the Federal and State Affairs Committee for Tuesday.

The measure allows grocery and convenience stores to start selling full-strength beer and wine on Jan. 1. They’re now allowed to sell so-called cereal malt beverage, also known as weak or low-point beer.

The bill also phases in liquor sales in grocery and convenience stores by 2015.

Many liquor store owners oppose the measure, saying it would let large retail chains run them out of business. Proponents argue it will create jobs and help struggling rural grocery stores.