New Jersey Assembly Bill A3150

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Permits issuance of special license in certain municipalities with shopping malls.

Impact

The bill impacts the existing laws surrounding alcohol licensing by introducing a mechanism that allows additional licenses to be granted in certain locations without fully adhering to the traditional population cap of one license per 3,000 residents. The Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control will be empowered to approve these special licenses based upon the conditions that municipalities meet certain criteria, thereby enhancing the opportunities for diverse business operations and maximizing consumer choice regarding dining and entertainment.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3150 authorizes the issuance of special alcoholic beverage licenses specifically in municipalities that host shopping malls. This legislation addresses an emerging trend where businesses inside shopping malls dominate the availability of plenary retail consumption licenses, which are necessary for serving alcoholic beverages. By allowing municipalities to issue special licenses to businesses outside of these shopping malls, the bill aims to level the playing field for local establishments trying to compete with mall-based businesses. This initiative is particularly crucial for bars and restaurants located in downtown areas or other regions lacking access to retail consumption licenses due to population-based limitations.

Contention

A potential point of contention surrounding A3150 may arise from the traditional balance between local governance and state regulation over alcohol sales. Proponents argue that this bill serves to support local businesses that are struggling against established mall tenants, while critics may express concerns regarding the implications of such licenses on public safety, community standards, and the existing monopolistic tendencies of mall-based businesses. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about how this new licensing framework could affect local regulations and zoning laws currently in place.