Bill > B26-0648

This bill, the DC Hospitality Amendment Act of 2026, makes significant changes to the District of Columbia's alcohol laws by introducing new license types, expanding existing regulations, and clarifying definitions. Key provisions include the creation of a "Contract Brewing License" allowing businesses to brew malt beverages for others, and a "Contract Brewing Agreement" defining the terms of such arrangements. The bill also establishes a "Washington Convention and Sports Authority food and alcohol business" definition and allows these businesses, along with Arena C/X licensees, to sell alcohol in outdoor public spaces for specific events. It revises employment restrictions for individuals with past felony convictions, limiting them to crimes of violence, gun offenses, tax evasion, fraud, or credit card fraud within the last three years, and permits 17-year-olds to serve alcohol under specific conditions. Patrons will be allowed to take partially consumed alcoholic beverages off-premises, and new licenses will enable restaurants to sell alcohol without requiring food purchases. The bill introduces "Pop-Up Restaurant Registration" for specific wards and downtown areas, allowing for on- and off-premises alcohol sales, and creates "Class C/RB and D/RB Restaurant Retailer Licenses" for locations in Wards 5, 7, 8, and downtown, which combine restaurant and wine/beer store functions. Additionally, an "Outdoor Activation License" will permit Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to sell alcohol in designated outdoor public spaces. The bill also clarifies definitions, adjusts fees for new license types, and modifies regulations regarding settlement agreements between licensees and community groups, including provisions for unenforceability of certain clauses and procedures for amending or terminating agreements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0648