SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6222
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. |
As of January 24, 2014
Title: An act relating to the streamlining and simplification of permits and licenses related to alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and spirits.
Brief Description: Streamlining and simplifying alcohol permits and licenses.
Sponsors: Senator Holmquist Newbry.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 1/24/14.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)
Background: The Washington Liquor Control Board (LCB) administers a wide variety of liquor-related licenses, endorsements, and permits. These differ based upon the type of business or organization applying for the license, the type of alcoholic beverage the applicant intends to serve, the planned activity or event, duration, etc. The process for obtaining the appropriate licenses or permits has become confusing to businesses and to the public.
Summary of Bill: LCB must make recommendations to the Legislature which include a detailed account of the statutory and technology changes needed to measurably streamline and simplify the spirits, beer, and wine licensing process.
Recommendations should address applications for permits and licenses, renewals, appeal of agency adverse actions, penalties, and categories of permits and licenses. Recommendations are not limited to these topics and LCB must convene a workgroup of regulated parties to provide input.
LCB must submit its recommendations to the Legislature by December 30, 2014.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The permitting and licensing scheme is complex and burdensome; it could be more efficient. The agency works with a legacy mainframe database and could use an update.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Alan Rathbun, Licensing Director, WA State LCB; Amy Brackenbury, WA Food Industry Assn.