Bill > H273

This bill amends Chapter 138 of the General Laws to allow licensees with a valid license for off-premise consumption of malt beverages, even those without an onsite brewery, to sell these beverages for consumption away from the licensed premises. Key provisions include that all malt beverages must be sold in non-clear glass bottles of 64 ounces, a deposit may be charged per bottle, and the bottles must be sealed by the licensee and meet federal and state labeling requirements. Sales must be accompanied by a time-stamped receipt, and these beverages cannot be consumed on the premises. Sales are permitted during normal business hours but not between 9 PM and 11 AM. Additionally, vendors must obtain written authorization from the malt beverage manufacturer to dispense these beverages, and this authorization can be revoked if the vendor violates the terms.