The implications of H692 on state laws include adjustments to the distribution regulations for alcohol sales in North Carolina. Specifically, it modifies regulations surrounding the purchase and resale of spirituous liquor, enabling more direct transactions between distilleries and permitted venues. This streamlining of alcohol resale processes is expected to foster business collaborations and potentially promote local distilling industries within the state by improving their market access through the restaurant and bar channels.
Summary
House Bill 692, titled 'Restaurants & Bars/Buy from Distiller', aims to amend the existing North Carolina General Statutes related to the sale of spirituous liquor. The bill allows restaurants and bars that hold a mixed beverages permit to purchase spirituous liquor directly from distillery permit holders for resale. This change is intended to give these establishments greater flexibility in sourcing their alcoholic beverages, potentially enhancing the business operations of establishments that serve mixed drinks. The proposal is positioned as a means to further support local distilleries while offering broader options for permitted restaurants and bars.
Sentiment
The general sentiment regarding H692 is largely supportive among local business owners and advocates for the distillery sector. Proponents argue that the bill facilitates a more competitive marketplace while simultaneously supporting local economies through increased patronage of nearby distilleries. However, some regulatory concerns have been raised about the potential complexity in monitoring the distribution and sale processes of alcoholic beverages, as increased transactions might necessitate more oversight to ensure compliance with existing laws.
Contention
Notable points of contention relating to H692 include concerns surrounding the public health implications of increased alcohol accessibility in restaurants and bars, as well as the regulatory burden placed on the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission to enforce the new purchasing guidelines. Critics emphasize the potential risk of oversaturation of alcohol sales locations and the ensuing social consequences, thus highlighting the need for careful management of the new regulatory framework.
In licenses and regulations and liquor, alcohol and malt and brewed beverages, further providing for hours of operation relative to manufacturers, importing distributors and distributors; and, in distilleries, wineries, bonded warehouses, bailees for hire and transporters for hire, further providing for limited distilleries and distilleries.