Bill > A03712

This bill amends the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law to modify regulations regarding retail liquor licenses for on-premises consumption. Specifically, the bill introduces new provisions that prevent granting a retail license for premises in cities, towns, or villages with populations of 20,000 or more if the location is within 500 feet of three or more existing licensed establishments. The bill includes detailed measurement guidelines for determining proximity, defining how distances are calculated (using straight lines from the center of entrances) and what constitutes an "entrance". The legislation also provides exceptions to these restrictions, such as allowing licenses for locations that have continuously maintained a license prior to November 1993, or for hotels with existing restaurant licenses. Importantly, the bill grants licensing authorities the discretion to issue licenses within the 500-foot restricted zone if they determine, after a public hearing and consultation with the local municipality or community board, that doing so would be in the public interest. The bill aims to provide more flexible alcohol licensing regulations while still maintaining considerations for community concerns and existing establishments.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3712