Tennessee Senate Bill SB1800

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 57, Chapter 3; Title 57, Chapter 4 and Title 57, Chapter 5, relative to hours of sale.

Impact

The potential implications of SB1800 on state laws include a shift towards localized control over alcohol sales, which could foster a more flexible business environment for establishments selling alcoholic beverages. By granting local governments the power to regulate Sunday sales through a majority vote, the bill accommodates diverse views on alcohol consumption in various communities across Tennessee. This shift could also encourage economic growth in areas where local businesses could benefit from increased customer traffic on Sundays.

Summary

Senate Bill 1800 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Titles 57, Chapters 3, 4, and 5, in relation to the hours of sale for alcoholic beverages. The primary focus of the bill is to enable local governing bodies to adopt ordinances or resolutions that permit the sale of alcoholic beverages, including beer, on Sundays during the same hours as allowed on weekdays, provided a two-thirds vote is in favor. This amendment seeks to give more autonomy to local jurisdictions in regulating alcohol sales according to their specific needs and community standards.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1800 may stem from differing perspectives on liquor sales regulations. Proponents argue that the bill empowers communities to make their own decisions, responding to local demand and reflective of local culture. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding the potential for inconsistencies in alcohol sales regulations across the state, fearing that some communities might restrict sales more than others, leading to confusion and possible inequities. This division highlights the balance between local control and state-level consistency in legislation.