Bill > SB172

This bill amends Hawaii's liquor licensing law by adding a new provision that requires liquor commissions or boards to automatically deny license renewals for establishments that have violated any provision of the state's Intoxicating Liquor Law three times within a twelve-month period preceding their renewal application. Currently, liquor commissions can deny renewals for reasons such as noise disturbances or potential criminal activities, but this bill introduces a more stringent, mandatory denial mechanism based on multiple violations. The bill applies to various classes of liquor licenses (including class 2, 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, and 18) and is designed to encourage stricter compliance with liquor regulations by creating a clear consequence for repeated infractions. The new rule will take effect immediately upon the bill's approval, providing liquor establishments with a strong incentive to adhere to legal requirements or risk losing their ability to sell alcohol.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=172&year=2026