Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB616

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to local regulation of the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on certain formerly licensed or permitted premises.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws by shifting some regulatory powers back to local authorities, allowing them to make nuanced decisions based on their unique community needs. By granting the power to control the consumption of alcoholic beverages in these previously licensed establishments, it places a greater emphasis on local circumstances, such as public safety and community standards. This could influence behaviors related to alcohol consumption, potentially reducing issues linked to problematic premises in neighborhoods.

Summary

House Bill 616 is designed to provide local governments in Texas the authority to regulate the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages at locations that were previously permitted for such activities but have since had their licenses revoked or expired. The bill allows the commissioners court of a county or the governing board of an incorporated city or town to enact regulations limiting these activities for up to three years following the loss of a license or permit. This is aimed at enhancing local governance over public drinking places by allowing communities to impose restrictions in cases of prior violations or issues leading to cancellations of permits.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 616 appears to be cautiously positive among proponents, who view it as a necessary tool for local governments to address specific drinking-related concerns in their jurisdictions. However, there may be some apprehension regarding the implications of increased local control and how it may be implemented, particularly concerning fairness and consistency in regulation across different locales. Overall, local leaders express optimism about strengthening their ability to manage and respond to local challenges with alcohol consumption.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 616 include discussions about the potential for over-regulation at the local level, which some opponents fear could lead to undue restrictions on responsible drinking establishments. The challenge lies in finding the right balance between empowering local governments to impose necessary regulations while preventing arbitrary or overly punitive measures that could unjustly harm business owners. Stakeholders from the hospitality industry may raise concerns about how this bill affects their operations and the broader economic implications for areas that rely on alcohol sales.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB670

Relating to the possession and consumption of wine on the premises of a mixed beverage permittee.

TX HB3339

Relating to the sale and regulation of alcoholic beverages by certain retailers.

TX SB191

Relating to prohibiting the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises of certain sexually oriented businesses; creating a criminal offense; providing a criminal penalty.

TX HB4964

Relating to the sale, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages at the Texas State History Museum.

TX HB2200

Relating to the sale of spirit coolers by certain alcoholic beverage permittees.

TX SB1288

Relating to the sale of spirit coolers by certain alcoholic beverage permittees.

TX SB2060

Relating to the sale, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages at the Texas State History Museum.

TX HB1825

Relating to the consumption, possession, and sale of alcoholic beverages at certain performing arts facilities owned by certain school districts.

TX HB1694

Relating to a local option election on the sale of alcoholic beverages in certain areas of a municipality and the local regulation of premises in those areas.

TX SB2095

Relating to the prosecution of the offense involving the possession or carrying of certain weapons on the premises or property of certain locations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.