Bill > SB87

This bill introduces three key provisions related to alcohol licensing in New Hampshire. First, it allows for-profit organizations to obtain up to six one-day liquor licenses per calendar year, with each event limited to 500 or fewer patrons. These licenses require advance approval from local fire, health, and police departments, and have specific rules about age restrictions and potential police supervision. Second, the bill modifies regulations around beverage tastings, allowing them to be conducted on premises approved by the commission, which slightly expands existing tasting opportunities. Third, and most notably, the bill creates a new "cocktail lounge license" specifically for barber shops, hair salons, and spas, permitting them to serve alcoholic beverages to customers during their scheduled service time. This new license costs $480 annually and requires the business to maintain detailed records of alcohol service. The license cannot be issued to businesses located in private residences, and patrons under 18 are allowed in the cocktail lounge without adult accompaniment. The bill will take effect 60 days after passage, and while it is not expected to require additional state funding, the Liquor Commission anticipates potential revenue increases ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 annually from the new licensing opportunities.

Business and Industry

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=1032&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB87