Massachusetts House Bill H3968

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/6/23
• Refer: 7/6/23

Caption

Granting an additional liquor license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises in the town of Chatham

Impact

The bill directly impacts the regulations outlined in Chapter 138 of the General Laws, which governs the sale of alcoholic beverages. By authorizing the municipal licensing authority to grant an additional liquor license that bypasses specific provisions of existing law (specifically Section 17), it indicates a shift towards more localized control over liquor licensing. This change can pave the way for increased business operations and revenue generation while maintaining adherence to state regulations, albeit with an exemption in this case.

Summary

House Bill H3968 proposes granting an additional liquor license specifically for Pate’s Restaurant, located in Chatham, Massachusetts. This bill aims to allow the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be consumed on the premises. By relaxing certain licensing restrictions, this bill seeks to enhance the local dining experience and potentially boost tourism and local economy in the town of Chatham. It's noteworthy that this legislation comes with local approval, reflecting the community's support for such a measure.

Contention

While the bill does not seem to face significant opposition within the documentation reviewed, there could be concerns about setting a precedent for other establishments seeking similar exemptions from existing laws. Critics may argue that such localized exemptions could lead to complications with statewide alcohol regulations or create inconsistencies in how various towns manage liquor licensing. However, the local approval process suggests a balanced consideration of community needs against regulatory frameworks.