Texas Senate Bill SB699

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the certification of an area's wet or dry status for the purpose of an alcoholic beverage permit or license.

Impact

The enactment of SB699 could significantly impact local regulations concerning the sale of alcohol. By specifying timelines for certification and setting procedures for hearings in case of disputes, the bill could reduce delays and uncertainty for businesses seeking to enter the alcoholic beverage market. Additionally, this may encourage more establishments to open in areas previously hesitant due to prolonged licensing processes or lack of clarity about a location's status.

Summary

Senate Bill 699 relates to the certification of an area's wet or dry status for the purpose of obtaining an alcoholic beverage permit or license. The bill aims to streamline the process by which potential applicants can verify whether their desired location is eligible for the sale of alcoholic drinks. This entails an efficient certification from local authorities, specifically the county clerk or city secretary, and mandates that they respond to certification requests within a fixed timeframe of 30 days.

Contention

While the bill may simplify the permitting process, there could be points of contention among local governments and community members regarding the regulations surrounding wet and dry areas. Critics may argue that the bill undermines local autonomy by enforcing state-mandated timelines and procedures that may not fit the specific needs or contexts of all counties or cities. The ability for local authorities to manage their own alcohol regulations according to community standards is a potential friction point, especially in more conservative regions.