Massachusetts House Bill H355

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Authorizing the town of Natick to grant an additional license for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises at 45 East Central Street

Impact

If enacted, this bill will specifically impact the local governance structure relating to alcoholic beverage licensing in Natick. It allows for local flexibility in responding to the demand for additional establishments where alcohol can be served on-site. Additionally, the bill ensures that any future licenses granted under its authority cannot be transferred to other locations, thereby maintaining control over how and where such licenses are issued within the town and providing assurances that these licenses will remain tied to the designated property.

Summary

House Bill 355 is a legislative proposal that aims to authorize the town of Natick to grant an additional license for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be consumed on the premises at a specified location, 45 East Central Street. This bill seeks to bypass certain restrictions posed by the state's General Laws, particularly section 17 of chapter 138, which governs the licensing of alcoholic beverages. By enabling local authorities to issue this additional license, the bill aims to accommodate specific local needs that may not be fully addressed by existing state laws.

Contention

There might be potential points of contention regarding this bill, particularly concerning the implications of increased alcohol availability in the locality. Supporters are likely to argue that this could enhance local business opportunities and revenues, while opponents may raise concerns about public safety, potential increased alcohol-related incidents, or the impact on community standards. The local government's ability to regulate such licenses is key to addressing any community-specific issues and ensuring that the propagation of alcohol-serving venues aligns with the town’s values.