Massachusetts Senate Bill S2860

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/11/24
• Report Pass: 7/11/24
• Engrossed: 12/2/24
• Refer: 12/5/24
• Engrossed: 12/16/24
• Enrolled: 12/19/24

Caption

Authorizing the town of Provincetown to grant 2 additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises

Impact

The bill specifically circumvents section 17 of chapter 138 of the General Laws, which typically imposes restrictions on the issuance of new alcoholic licenses. By allowing Provincetown to issue these additional licenses, the bill provides a significant boost to local businesses that may have previously faced regulatory hurdles in entering or expanding within the alcoholic beverage market. Furthermore, this modification to local licensing laws could set a precedent for other towns facing similar challenges.

Summary

Senate Bill S2860 aims to authorize the town of Provincetown, Massachusetts to grant two additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not intended to be consumed on the premises. This legislation seeks to address the needs of the local market by expanding the licensing options available to businesses within the town. This move comes as a response to demands from local entrepreneurs seeking to diversify their offerings to better serve both residents and visitors, thereby enhancing economic activity in the area.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding this bill is the concern over potential over-saturation of alcohol licenses in a small community. Opponents argue that increasing the number of licenses may lead to negative social impacts, including increased noise and public disturbances. However, supporters counter that the regulation stipulates the licenses cannot be transferred and must remain tied to the original location, thereby allowing for controlled expansion while mitigating risks associated with excessive alcohol sales.