Bill > A09079

This bill amends the New York State Alcoholic Beverage Control Law to modify restrictions on alcohol licenses for establishments located near schools, churches, and other places of worship. Currently, businesses cannot obtain certain alcohol licenses if they are within 200 feet of these buildings. The bill introduces a new provision that allows licensing authorities to issue alcohol consumption licenses for such premises (except in cities with populations over one million) if the owner or administrator of the nearby school, church, or place of worship explicitly supports the license. This change applies to several types of alcohol licenses, including retail, special, bottle club, restaurant-brewer, and cabaret licenses. The key modification is that proximity to a sensitive institution will no longer automatically disqualify an establishment from obtaining an alcohol license, provided the nearby institution's leadership affirmatively supports the license. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for businesses seeking to serve alcohol while still respecting the concerns of nearby institutions. The legislation will take effect immediately upon enactment.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9079