FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5367

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.

Background: The Liquor Control Board (LCB) issues a number of different licenses for premises that serve spirits, beer, and wine. It does not currently issue liquor licenses for nightclubs. Businesses that operate as nightclubs that wish to serve spirits, may do so under a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license.

Summary: A spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license is established. The license allows the holder to make retail sales of liquor by the drink, beer, and wine for consumption on the premises. The spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license can be issued only to persons whose business includes the sale and service of alcohol to its customers and has food sales incidental to the sale of alcohol. The business must also have its primary hours between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. Minors are allowed on the premises but not in areas where alcohol is served. The annual fee for a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license is $2,000. Local governments may petition the LCB to request that further restrictions be imposed on a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license in the interest of public safety. The LCB can refuse to grant a spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license if it determines that the number of nightclub licenses already granted for the locality are adequate for the reasonable needs of the community. Local jurisdictions may object to liquor license renewals 30 days before the expiration date of the renewal.

Other statutes dealing with spirits, beer, and wine restaurant; spirits, beer, and wine private club; and sports entertainment facility licenses are amended to include the spirits, beer, and wine nightclub license.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	38	11
House	97	0	(House amended)
Senate	34	12	(Senate concurred)