Massachusetts House Bill H3828

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/8/23
• Refer: 5/8/23
• Engrossed: 6/15/23
• Engrossed: 6/22/23
• Enrolled: 6/22/23
• Chaptered: 6/27/23
• Passed: 6/27/23

Caption

Authorizing the town of Mansfield to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises

Impact

The bill modifies existing regulations by allowing Mansfield to circumvent certain restrictions laid out in state law (specifically, section 17 of chapter 138 of the General Laws) which typically govern the issuance of alcoholic beverage licenses. By granting this additional license exclusively to one designated retailer, the bill aims to enhance local business opportunities while still adhering to oversight mechanisms to maintain compliance with state laws regarding licensing.

Summary

House Bill 3828 seeks to authorize the town of Mansfield to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be consumed on the premises. Specifically, this bill allows the Mansfield licensing authority to issue one supplementary license to Jay Amruta Corporation, which operates the Mansfield Liquor Market. The legislation is designed to provide Mansfield with greater flexibility in managing its licensing authority and addressing local commerce needs, particularly in the beverage retail sector.

Contention

While the bill has reportedly received local approval, there may be implications regarding potential disparities in licensing practices between Mansfield and other towns, as well as questions about fairness in granting licenses to specific businesses. Critics could argue that such legislation may lead to an uneven playing field in the local alcohol market, thereby allowing one specific vendor certain advantages over potential competitors who may wish to enter the market. Nonetheless, proponents of the bill assert that it is a tailored solution to local economic conditions and consumer demand.