Bill > S00370

This bill allows up to ten licensees who sell wine or liquor for off-premises consumption to form cooperative agreements for joint alcoholic beverage purchases, subject to specific regulatory standards. These standards include allowing cooperative employees to manage purchases while complying with existing employment regulations, ensuring no restrictions on joining multiple cooperatives or setting prices, and permitting members to withdraw within 30 days without penalties. The bill mandates that all cooperative purchases must be documented in writing, with credit purchases requiring either a bond or joint liability for payment, and each purchase must be separately invoiced with the cooperative's registration number. Additionally, the bill requires that purchases be transported according to existing regulations, prohibits commingling of inventory or assets, and ensures that any violation of the cooperative agreement would implicate all members. The legislation also allows cooperatives to maintain a public warehouse, provided they follow specific inventory and space allocation rules. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for small retailers in purchasing alcoholic beverages while maintaining strict oversight to prevent potential abuses.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S370