Kentucky 2022 Regular Session

Kentucky Senate Bill SB71

Introduced
1/10/22  
Refer
1/10/22  

Caption

AN ACT relating to wine corkage.

Impact

The introduction of SB71 is likely to have significant implications for state laws governing the sale and consumption of alcohol. By creating a provision for corkage, the bill seeks to align legal frameworks more closely with customer dining preferences. Establishments may experience a positive shift in patronage as customers appreciate the added flexibility of enjoying personal wine selections. Furthermore, it could lead to increased revenues for restaurants through potential corkage fees, thereby bolstering local economies, especially for establishments heavily reliant on food and wine pairings.

Summary

SB71 is a bill that amends Kentucky's laws regarding wine corkage at licensed establishments. It allows holders of 'Nonquota type 2' (NQ2) retail drink licenses and limited restaurant licenses to permit patrons to bring up to two unopened bottles of wine for consumption with their meals on the premises. The bill stipulates that the establishment must serve the wine, charge a corkage fee, and ensure that the wine brought is not available for sale at the premises. This legislative effort aims to enhance dining experiences by providing customers the option to enjoy their preferred wine alongside their meals, thus promoting customer satisfaction in restaurants.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB71 appears to be predominantly positive, particularly among restaurant owners who see it as an opportunity to enhance customer service. Legislators supporting the bill assert that it offers patrons a desirable choice that aligns with contemporary dining trends. However, there are concerns from some legislators about the implications for alcohol regulation and the potential for misuse of the corkage privileges. Overall, the reception reflects a blend of optimism for its commercial benefits while acknowledging the need for responsible implementation.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB71 center on the balance between enhancing customer choice and ensuring compliance with existing alcohol regulations. Some critics worry that allowing corkage may complicate enforcement of laws related to the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages, potentially leading to complications in liability or overconsumption. Others question whether it might dilute the integrity of licensed establishments that depend solely on sales of in-house wines. The successful passage of the bill may depend on addressing these concerns adequately through appropriate regulatory measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KY SB44

AN ACT relating to wine corkage.

KY SB68

AN ACT relating to wine corkage.

KY HB734

AN ACT relating to regulated beverages.

KY HB500

AN ACT relating to the sale of alcoholic beverages and declaring an emergency.

KY HB439

AN ACT relating to alcoholic beverages and declaring an emergency.

KY HB660

AN ACT relating to alcoholic beverages.

KY SB50

AN ACT relating to alcoholic beverages.

KY HB712

AN ACT relating to economic development.

KY SB28

AN ACT relating to small farm wineries and declaring an emergency.

KY SB202

AN ACT relating to regulated beverages and declaring an emergency.

Similar Bills

NJ S4563

Revises territorial rating plans used by insurers writing private passenger automobile insurance.

NJ A5846

Revises territorial rating plans used by insurers writing private passenger automobile insurance.

NJ S1653

Provides that private passenger automobile insurance rating territories shall not place exposure in territory based on ZIP code under certain circumstances.

NJ S2710

Provides that private passenger automobile insurance rating territories shall not place exposure in territory based on ZIP code under certain circumstances.

CA SB226

Community colleges: territory transfers between districts.

CA AB645

Local government: organization: dissolution.

CA AB1924

Sacramento Regional Transit District.

CA SB938

The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000: protest proceedings: procedural consolidation.