Kansas House Bill HB2059

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Report Pass: 2/8/23
• Engrossed: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/6/23
• Report Pass: 3/23/23
• Enrolled: 4/24/23
• Passed: 4/25/23

Caption

Exempting charitable raffle prizes of alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverages from the Kansas liquor control act, the club and drinking establishment act and the Kansas cereal malt beverage act; amending the spirits, wine and beer distributors law regulating samples; requiring monthly remittance of gallonage taxes regarding special order shipping of wine; allowing businesses to sell cereal malt beverage by the drink on Sundays without requiring that 30% of the gross receipts of such businesses be derived from the sale of food; permitting food establishments to allow dogs in outside areas on the premises and food establishments that are microbreweries to allow dogs in outside and inside areas on the premises notwithstanding certain provisions of the Kansas food code; amending the common consumption area law to permit rather than require roads be blocked and allowing designation of such areas by signage.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 2059 on state laws is multifaceted. By allowing Sunday sales of cereal malt beverages without the 30% food sales requirement, the bill aims to enhance business opportunities for bars and restaurants, potentially leading to increased sales and patronage during weekends. Furthermore, the new allowances for dogs in certain food establishments could appeal to a broader consumer base. Overall, the bill aims to modernize these regulations and adapt to changing consumer preferences, particularly in the hospitality sector.

Summary

House Bill 2059 seeks to amend existing laws related to the sale and regulation of alcoholic beverages and food establishments in Kansas. Notably, the bill exempts charitable raffle prizes of alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverages from existing state liquor control laws. Additionally, it allows food establishments to sell cereal malt beverages by the drink on Sundays without the previous requirement that at least 30% of their gross receipts come from food sales, thus increasing their operational flexibility. The legislation also addresses provisions for permitting dogs in designated outdoor and indoor areas in food establishments, specifically those classified as microbreweries.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 2059 appears positive, particularly among supporters who view the changes as favorable to both businesses and customers. Proponents argue that the new liquor laws will enhance the dining experience and promote local economy by making it easier for food and drink establishments to operate more flexibly. However, there are concerns regarding health and safety standards, particularly about allowing dogs in food establishments, which may raise issues of hygiene and contamination. The balance between economic benefits and public health concerns is a key aspect of the ongoing discourse around this bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2059 include opposition from those who fear the easing of regulations might open the floodgates to unsanitary conditions, especially with regard to the new pet-friendly provisions. Critics argue that adequately managing health standards in establishments that allow dogs presents challenges that could undermine consumer safety. Additionally, there might be disputes regarding the impact on local businesses that traditionally rely on more restrictive alcohol sales laws to maintain their competitive edge.