Permits issuance of special license in certain municipalities with shopping malls.
Impact
Currently, New Jersey law allows for one plenary retail consumption license per 3,000 residents, which can hinder the growth of local businesses in towns where shopping malls dominate. As shopping malls increasingly acquire these licenses, independent establishments outside the malls often struggle to compete. SB 2147 seeks to rectify this imbalance by providing an alternative pathway for local businesses to obtain licenses, thus promoting local economic development and supporting small enterprises that are not situated within these large retail complexes.
Summary
Senate Bill 2147 aims to authorize the issuance of special alcoholic beverage licenses in municipalities with shopping malls. The bill stipulates that the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control may issue a special license for each plenary retail consumption license within a shopping mall, granting eligible non-mall business establishments the right to serve alcoholic beverages for immediate consumption. This measure is designed to facilitate competition among local bars and restaurants by allowing them access to licenses that might otherwise be monopolized by businesses located within shopping malls.
Contention
The introduction of this bill may lead to debate regarding fairness in licensing opportunities and the balance of power between businesses located in shopping malls and those on traditional main streets. Proponents argue that this bill is essential for fostering a vibrant local business environment, while some mall-based businesses may contend that it could potentially dilute their market share and create an uneven competitive landscape.
Removes time limitation on issuance of additional alcoholic beverage licenses within boundaries of former federal military installations; allows ABC Director to issue concessionaire permit for locations eligible to receive special mall license.
Allows municipalities to transfer inactive alcoholic beverage retail licenses for use in redevelopment areas under certain circumstances; allows retail distribution and seasonal consumption licenses to be converted into consumption licenses.