Massachusetts House Bill H360

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25
• Refer: 7/17/25
• Engrossed: 8/21/25

Caption

Relative to certain licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises in the city of Holyoke

Impact

The passage of HB 360 would enable city officials to better manage the distribution and control of alcohol licenses within Holyoke, allowing for potentially increased local economic activity through the establishment of more licensed establishments in the TOD West area. It is presented as a means to promote business growth and community development by creating a regulation that is tailored specifically to meet local needs. However, the amendment would also follow local approval from both the mayor and the city council, suggesting a community-oriented approach to liquor licensing.

Summary

House Bill 360 is a legislative proposal focused on the licensing of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises within the city of Holyoke, Massachusetts. The bill aims to amend existing regulations by modifying subsections of a chapter related to alcoholic beverage licenses. It specifies that one license for all types of alcoholic beverages and two separate licenses for the sale of wine and malt beverages shall be allocated to a designated area known as TOD West. This area encompasses a precise set of geographical boundaries defined within the text of the bill.

Contention

While there may not be major noted points of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 360 as indicated in the provided documents, similar legislative actions historically encounter opposition regarding the saturation of alcohol outlets in neighborhoods, concerns about public health, and increased competition among existing businesses. Local leaders might face scrutiny from community members who are wary of the social implications of expanding alcohol availability in specific areas.