Bill > H437

This bill aims to return more liquor license control to municipalities in Massachusetts by making several key changes to existing alcohol licensing laws. The legislation would allow cities and towns to determine the number of alcoholic beverage licenses they can issue, including seasonal licenses, with a minimum of two licenses for smaller communities. Municipalities would be required to adopt a municipal plan for granting additional licenses after January 1, 2018, which must include at least one public hearing and notification to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission. The bill introduces new provisions for license transfers, stipulating that new licenses issued after July 1, 2016, will be non-transferable, and if a business closes or sells, the license must be returned to the local licensing authority. The bill also provides more flexibility for special event licenses, allowing local authorities to determine the type and number of licenses for indoor and outdoor activities. Additionally, the legislation modifies existing restrictions on late-night alcohol service, potentially allowing municipalities serviced by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to extend their service hours if the local governing body accepts the provision. Overall, the bill represents a significant shift toward local control of alcohol licensing, giving municipalities more autonomy in managing liquor licenses within their jurisdictions.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H437