Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4286

Introduced
7/23/25  

Caption

Authorizing the town of Somerset to grant an additional license for the sale of wine and malt beverages to be drunk off the premises

Impact

If enacted, H4286 will specifically amend local ordinance in Somerset, allowing for an increase in the number of alcoholic beverage licenses available to retailers for off-premises consumption. This act would permit the convenience store to operate under certain stipulations, such as ensuring licenses cannot be transferred to another location but may be reissued if certain conditions are met. The impacts could positively affect local businesses by providing them with more opportunities to sell alcohol, potentially leading to increased revenue and customer traffic.

Summary

House Bill 4286 seeks to authorize the town of Somerset to issue an additional license for the sale of wine and malt beverages intended for off-premises consumption. This initiative is aimed primarily at Olde Village Convenience Store located at 2756 County Street in Somerset. The bill offers a localized approach to alcohol licensing, which is typically regulated at the state level under chapter 138 of the General Laws, specifically modifying section 17 to allow this exception for Somerset while maintaining other regulatory compliance requirements.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, discussions around H4286 may involve concerns about local alcohol consumption patterns and the potential for increased alcohol availability leading to social issues. Notably, opponents might argue against the expansion of alcohol sales in residential areas, exploring the implications on community safety and well-being. However, proponents will likely emphasize the bill's potential to support local businesses and promote economic development in Somerset.

Companion Bills

MA H3906

Replaces Authorizing the town of Somerset to grant additional licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be drunk off the premises

Previously Filed As

MA H5126

Authorizing the town of Lexington to grant ten additional licenses for the sale of wine and malt beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA S2471

Authorizing the city of Everett to grant 2 additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not be drunk on the premises, and 1 additional license for the sale of wine and malt beverages not to be drunk on the premises

MA H4990

Authorizing the town of Sherborn to grant 1 additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises

MA S2985

Authorizing the town of Sandwich to grant additional licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA S2861

Authorizing the town of Sandwich to grant additional licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H4992

Authorizing the town of Fairhaven to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H345

Authorizing the town of Berlin to grant up to two additional all alcoholic beverages licenses not to be drunk on the premises

MA S2860

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

MA H4192

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

MA H5125

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.