Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Ways & Means Committee

HB 2043

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: Increasing state revenues by allowing the sale of liquor-related products in state and contract liquor stores and by creating a pilot project for the colocation of contract liquor stores in grocery stores.

Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins, Darneille, Cody, Pettigrew, Haigh, Ormsby, Hasegawa and Kenney.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows the Liquor Control Board to sell liquor-related products in state liquor stores.

  • Establishes a pilot project to colocate up to five contract stores within grocery stores in high population areas.

Hearing Date: 4/13/11

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7175).

Background:

The Liquor Control Board (Board) operates the state liquor stores; oversees contract liquor stores; issues liquor licenses and permits; regulates the manufacture, distribution, and sale of beer and wine; enforces liquor and tobacco laws; conducts education; and collects taxes.

Under current law, products the Board sells in state liquor stores are limited to liquor. The Board also determines the areas within the state where contract liquor stores may be located. A contract liquor store may be located in a city, town, or community in which no state liquor store is located.

Summary of Bill:

The Liquor Control Board (Board) may sell liquor related products in state liquor stores. Liquor related products are defined to include ice, mixers, preserved foods used in drinks, bartender's guides, tools used to prepare drinks, and items associated with drinking alcoholic beverages.

A pilot project is authorized, beginning in fiscal year 2012, to colocate up to five contract stores within grocery stores in high population areas. The Board must report to the appropriate committees of the Legislature by January 1, 2013, regarding the results of the pilot project.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.