Bill > HB208

This bill makes several modifications to Hawaii's liquor licensing laws, focusing on three main areas: inspection procedures, dispenser license categories, and enforcement authority. First, the bill establishes that liquor investigators can conduct unannounced inspections of licensed premises on an annual basis and at other intervals determined by the board, with the goal of ensuring public health, safety, and welfare. Second, the bill eliminates a specific dispenser license category for establishments where employees are paid to sit with patrons, effectively removing this type of venue from liquor licensing regulations. Third, the bill clarifies the authority of liquor investigators and police officers to enter licensed premises, explicitly allowing them to use reasonable force to enter if they are denied admittance after identifying themselves and their official capacity. These changes aim to strengthen regulatory oversight of liquor establishments by providing clearer guidelines for inspections and enforcement, while simplifying the licensing categories. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and does not impact any legal rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed prior to its effective date.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=208&year=2026