Provides an exemption to certain permit fees collected by the Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. (gov sig) (Item #35) (OR DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Impact
If enacted, SB19 will modify existing provisions of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law by implementing new rules that permit fee waivers and refunds. This would be a significant adjustment in the state's approach to the regulation of alcoholic beverages and could set a precedent for future legislation aimed at providing temporary relief in times of crisis. The immediate effect will be a reduction in the financial burden placed on operators of bars and liquor-selling establishments who have been adversely affected by the closures and restrictions imposed due to the pandemic.
Summary
Senate Bill 19, introduced by Senator Talbot during the 2020 Second Extraordinary Session, seeks to provide financial relief to certain alcoholic beverage permit holders who faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill specifically targets Class A-General permit holders, allowing them to waive permit fees for the year 2021 if they paid their fees on time during 2020. Additionally, it offers a refund of fees for those who surrendered their permits in good standing during the same year. This reflects an acknowledgment of the economic pressures faced by the beverage industry during the pandemic.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB19 appears to be supportive among stakeholders in the alcohol retail industry, particularly amidst the ongoing recovery from the economic impact of COVID-19. Proponents of the bill consider it a necessary measure to sustain businesses that are crucial to the state's economy. However, there may be concerns from regulatory bodies regarding the long-term implications of such exemptions and how they may affect compliance and enforcement of alcohol-related laws in the future.
Contention
One notable point of contention arises from discussions about equitability in the application of these exemptions. While the relief is welcomed by those directly affected, critics might argue about its fairness to businesses that adhered to payment schedules without seeking relief or those outside this specific category of permits. This raises broader questions about the state's role in providing support during unique challenges and whether such measures should be extended beyond the beverage industry.
Authorizes the commissioner of the office of alcohol and tobacco control to set permit fees pursuant to the regulations up to a maximum amount. (8/1/12) (EN NO IMPACT SG RV See Note)
Provides for an exception for certain applicants for employee permits seeking to work in locations permitted by the office of alcohol and tobacco control as a restaurant. (8/1/20)