Wyoming Senate Bill SF0013

Wyoming 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Report Pass: 1/19/23
• Engrossed: 1/24/23
• Refer: 2/3/23
• Report Pass: 2/6/23
• Enrolled: 2/9/23
• Passed: 2/15/23

Caption

Bar and grill liquor license phaseout.

Impact

The legislative changes proposed in SF0013 aim to streamline liquor licensing across cities of varying sizes and adapt the local liquor licensing structure in line with population growth. By capping the number of licenses that can be issued based on population brackets, the bill attempts to maintain an equilibrium in the availability of bar and grill services while ensuring that these establishments continue to focus on food sales—a requirement set at 60% of revenue. An important change includes allowing counties to control additional licenses issued outside incorporated cities based on demographics, which could impact rural areas significantly.

Summary

SF0013, known as the Bar and Grill Liquor License Act, amends existing regulations governing the issuance of liquor licenses for bars and grills in Wyoming. This bill introduces new population-based formulas for granting liquor licenses in cities and towns, modifies the requirement that a significant percentage of revenue must be derived from food sales, and sets a sunset provision for these changes. Specifically, the bill has provisions that will revert to different licensing criteria beginning in 2028, demonstrating a phased approach to liquor regulation in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF0013 appears mostly supportive within the legislative body, as indicated by its passage with a 24-4 vote. Advocates of the bill argue that it provides a reasonable balance between fostering growth in the hospitality industry and maintaining community standards through necessary regulation. However, there may be underlying concerns among some stakeholders about the long-term implications of this phased licensing structure, particularly on community businesses that may struggle to meet the new revenue thresholds.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the sustainability of the 60% revenue threshold derived from food, which may present challenges for some bar and grill establishments that traditionally rely more on liquor sales. Additionally, the sunset provision for the current licensing formulas adds an element of uncertainty, as stakeholders will need to adapt to potential regulatory changes in 2028. Concerns also exist regarding the equitable distribution of licenses among established businesses and newcomers in rapidly growing areas, making this a topic warranting further dialogue and adjustment in future legislative sessions.