Bill > HB276

This bill removes the longstanding requirement for on-premises beverage licensees in New Hampshire to serve food while selling alcoholic beverages. Specifically, the bill modifies existing laws for various types of establishments with beverage licenses, including restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfasts, dining cars, and vessels, by eliminating language that previously mandated food sales or kitchen operations as a condition of serving alcohol. The key changes include removing phrases like "at such times as food is available" and deleting provisions that required establishments to demonstrate a certain percentage of food sales (previously 50%) to maintain their liquor license. This modification will provide more flexibility for businesses with on-premises beverage licenses, potentially making it easier for establishments to serve alcohol without the previous food service restrictions. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving businesses and regulatory agencies time to adjust to the new licensing requirements.

Business and Industry

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0552&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB276