Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Commerce & Labor Committee |
HB 2947
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning special occasion licenses.
Sponsors: Representatives Wood, Conway, Condotta and Ormsby.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date:
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).
Background:
A not-for-profit society or organization may obtain a special occasion retail liquor license to sell spirits, beer, and wine by the individual serving for on-premises consumption at a specified date and time. With prior permission from the Liquor Control Board, a special occasion licensee may also sell beer and wine in original unopened containers for off-premises consumption. Sales under this license are limited to 12 calendar days per year.
The tied house law prohibits a liquor manufacturer, importer, or distributor ("industry member") from providing "moneys' worth" to a retailer. The tied house law has been interpreted to prohibit the extension of credit to retailers. A number of exceptions have been enacted. These include exceptions to allow an industry member to provide services to a special occasion licensee for: (1) the installation of draft beer dispensing equipment or advertising; and (2) advertising, pouring, or dispensing of beer or wine at a beer or wine tasting exhibition or judging event. A winery may also provide pouring and other personal services at special occasion events.
Summary of Bill:
Two additional exceptions regarding special occasion licensees are added to the tied house law. Special occasion licensees may pay for beer or wine immediately following the end of the special occasion event. In addition, wineries or breweries that are participating in a special occasion event may pay reasonable table fees to the special occasion licensee.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.