Bill > HB1698

This bill updates liquor permit and licensing provisions in Washington state, making several key changes to existing alcohol-related regulations. The bill modifies the types of special permits that can be issued, expands definitions of alcohol server permits, and updates rules for alcohol service and training. Specifically, it introduces new special permit categories for events like trade conventions, international trade fairs, and nonprofit auctions, and creates an annual special permit for short-term rental operators to provide a complimentary wine bottle to guests over 21. The bill also updates terminology around alcohol servers, replacing gendered language with gender-neutral terms like "their" and broadening definitions of on-premises licensed facilities to include more types of venues. Additionally, it updates alcohol server permit requirements, including a new curriculum component for alcohol delivery employees and provisions for recognizing previous alcohol management training. The bill also repeals an existing statute related to public house licensing. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for alcohol service providers while maintaining regulatory oversight and responsible alcohol service practices.

Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1698&Year=2025&Initiative=false