SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5280
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 February 18, 2015
Title: An act relating to the sale of beer and cider by grocery store licensees.
Brief Description: Concerning the sale of beer and cider by grocery store licensees.
Sponsors: Senators Kohl-Welles, Braun and Warnick.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/18/15.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Richard Rodger (786-7461)
Background: The Liquor Control Board (LCB) is the lead agency responsible for the licensing of businesses that sell spirits, beer, and wine.
Certain licensees are authorized to sell beer and cider in sanitary containers (growlers) brought to the premises by the purchaser to be filled at the tap at the time of sale. The following businesses, holding the proper licenses or endorsements, are authorized to sell beer and cider in growlers: (1) domestic breweries; (2) microbreweries; (3) beer and wine retailers; (4) beer or wine specialty shops; (5) restaurants; and (6) hotels. Except for hotels, the sales are only permitted for off-premises consumption.
A class 12 alcohol server permit for managers or bartenders requires completion of a course certified by LCB. Curriculum includes subjects such as the physiological effects of alcohol, liability and legal information, driving while intoxicated, effective intervention, methods for checking proper identification, and Washington laws.
Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.
Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): A grocery store licensee that exceeds 50 percent beer and wine sales or maintains an alcohol inventory of not less than $15,000 may, with LCB approval, receive an endorsement to sell beer or cider in growlers. The growlers may be brought to the grocery store by the purchaser or provided by the licensee or manufacturer and must be filled at the tap at the time of sale by an employee with a class 12 alcohol server permit.
LCB may adopt rules to implement the grocery store licensee provisions. The rules can include the regulation of the sale of beer or cider or the sizes of containers that may be filled.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
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 bill allows certain grocery stores to sell beer and cider in growlers. This extends the rights already granted to beer and wine specialty stores to some grocery stores.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Amy Brackenbury, WA Food Industry Assn.; TK Bentler, WA Assn. of Neighborhood Stores.