Service of alcohol beverages on retail licensed premises by underage persons.
Impact
The implications of SB279 are substantial for both the retail alcohol industry and youth employment practices in Wisconsin. By lowering the minimum age for those who can carry and serve alcohol, proponents of the bill argue that it will address staffing shortages in the hospitality industry, particularly in areas with high demand for waiting staff. However, this change raises concerns regarding the potential for increased underage access to alcohol and the associated risks of irresponsible drinking behaviors among minors.
Summary
Senate Bill 279, introduced by Senators Stafsholt and Quinn, aims to amend existing laws governing the service of alcoholic beverages in licensed retail establishments. The bill allows individuals as young as 14 years old to carry and serve alcohol to customers on licensed premises, a significant change from previous regulations that restricted alcohol service to individuals at least 18 years of age. This proposal is viewed as a measure to enable greater youth employment opportunities within the hospitality sector, particularly in restaurants and bars.
Contention
Opposition to SB279 comes from various community and public health advocates who warn that allowing teenagers to serve alcohol engenders risks to public safety and health. Critics argue that the hospitality industry, while in need of staff, should not compromise on the age-related regulations designed to mitigate alcohol-related harms. The balance between improving employment opportunities for youth and maintaining responsible alcohol service practices remains a central point of contention in discussions regarding this bill.
The face-to-face requirement for retail sales of alcohol beverages and remote orders for the sale of alcohol beverages to be delivered or picked up on retail licensed premises. (FE)
The face-to-face requirement for retail sales of alcohol beverages and remote orders for the sale of alcohol beverages to be delivered or picked up on retail licensed premises. (FE)
Creating the Division of Alcohol Beverages attached to the Department of Revenue; the regulation of alcohol beverages and enforcement of alcohol beverage laws; interest restrictions relating to, and authorized activities of, brewers, brewpubs, wineries, manufacturers, rectifiers, wholesalers, and retailers; shipping alcohol beverages by means of fulfillment houses and common carriers; the consumption of alcohol beverages in a public place; creating a no-sale event venue permit; creating an operator's permit; liquor licenses transferred from one municipality to another; retailers' authorized activities; liquor license quotas; the safe ride program; the presence of underage persons and conduct of other business on licensed premises; the occupational tax on alcohol beverages; repealing a rule promulgated by the Department of Revenue; granting rule-making authority; and providing a penalty. (FE)
Creating the Division of Alcohol Beverages attached to the Department of Revenue; the regulation of alcohol beverages and enforcement of alcohol beverage laws; interest restrictions relating to, and authorized activities of, brewers, brewpubs, wineries, manufacturers, rectifiers, wholesalers, and retailers; shipping alcohol beverages by means of fulfillment houses and common carriers; the consumption of alcohol beverages in a public place; creating a no-sale event venue permit; creating an operator's permit; liquor licenses transferred from one municipality to another; retailers' authorized activities; liquor license quotas; the safe ride program; the presence of underage persons and conduct of other business on licensed premises; the occupational tax on alcohol beverages; repealing a rule promulgated by the Department of Revenue; granting rule-making authority; and providing a penalty. (FE)
An Act Concerning The Denial Of Unemployment Compensation Benefits To Certain Drivers Who Are Unemployed As A Result Of Being Denied A Special Operator's Permit.
Traffic control: driver license; regulation of a relying party related to a mobile driver license or identification card; provide for. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0459'23, SB 0460'23, SB 0461'23