Bill > HB123

This bill revises Montana's alcohol laws to allow certain forms of self-service for beer and wine under specific conditions. The legislation defines "self-service" to exclude scenarios where licensed establishments supervise customer alcohol dispensing, such as allowing customers to pour from large containers like pitchers or using electronic devices with predetermined volume limits. These technology-based devices must be actively monitored by licensees or their employees to ensure people are not overserved. The bill also clarifies that payment methods for these technology-based beer and wine service systems do not constitute gift certificates, which helps remove potential legal barriers to implementing such self-service technologies. By amending existing statutes, the bill provides a legal framework for establishments to implement more flexible alcohol service methods while maintaining important safeguards around responsible alcohol consumption. The changes aim to modernize alcohol service practices by allowing for innovative dispensing technologies while ensuring that licensed establishments remain responsible for controlling alcohol distribution and preventing over-consumption.

Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0884