Bill > SB113

This bill addresses the renewal of liquor licenses near schools or parks by modifying existing Hawaii state law (Section 281-39.5). Currently, the law allows for denying or restricting new liquor licenses near schools or parks, but not renewals of existing licenses. The bill expands the existing provision to include license renewals, giving registered voters within 500 feet of a liquor establishment the opportunity to protest the renewal of a liquor license if they have concerns about the establishment's impact on the neighborhood. The legislature recognizes that while residents might not have protested an initial license issuance, they may develop concerns over time about how the establishment operates and its effect on nearby residents and public facilities. Specifically, the bill amends the language of the statute to apply to both the issuance of new liquor licenses and the renewal of existing liquor licenses for on-site sale and consumption. The bill does not affect any rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its effective date and will take effect upon approval.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=113&year=2026