Bill > S1258

This bill amends existing Idaho law to authorize liquor licenses for distilleries, which are legally authorized premises that manufacture and bottle liquor and are located on at least five acres of agricultural zoned property in an unincorporated area. Specifically, it allows the director of the Idaho State Police to issue licenses to distilleries, permitting them to sell liquor from brands they own, with license fees set at the same rate as those for golf courses. The bill also provides exemptions for officers, agents, and employees of distilleries from certain restrictions that would otherwise prevent them from holding liquor licenses, and clarifies that distilleries are exempt from certain requirements, such as needing to serve food cooked on-site, and are permitted to sell liquor from their own brands. Additionally, it ensures that individuals under 21 years old are allowed on the premises of a licensed distillery that sells only its own brands, similar to existing exceptions for breweries and wineries. The bill also declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs, Justice

State Affairs Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1258/