FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1564

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:

In 1934, after the repeal of prohibition, the Washington State Liquor Act (Act) was enacted. The Act includes provisions allowing incorporated cities, towns, and unincorporated areas of counties to hold an election on the question of whether the sale of liquor should be permitted. The only statutory method to repeal such prohibition is by another public vote at a general election. Areas that are annexed into a city following the enactment of a liquor prohibition are not subject to the prohibition.

In 1975 the citizens of the City of Fircrest (Fircrest) voted on a ballot measure asking them to decide whether to prohibit the sale of liquor by the drink within the city. The prohibition was adopted, and all liquor sales by the drink were terminated 90 days later. Subsequent to the enactment of the prohibition, Fircrest annexed new territory into the city. The annexed areas are not subject to the city's prohibition.

Summary:

Territory annexed into a city after the passage of a liquor prohibition by that city through a public vote is not subject to any post-annexation liquor prohibition enacted by that city pursuant to a subsequent election.

Votes on Final Passage:

House	65	33
Senate	45	2