FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1495

C 320 L 03

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Changing provisions relating to the summary suspension of a liquor license pending revocation proceedings.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Hudgins, Chandler, Conway and Kenney; by request of Liquor Control Board).

House Committee on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Commerce & Trade

Background:

The Liquor Control Board (Board) licenses and controls the sale and distribution of alcohol in Washington. The Board also enforces laws related to the sale of alcohol.

The Board may summarily suspend a liquor license and require the licensee to stop serving alcohol for up to 30 days without a prior hearing if it finds that the health, safety, and welfare of the public requires immediate action. The Board has established rules for summarily suspending the license of an establishment involved in serious criminal activity. When the Board summarily suspends a license, the licensee may request a hearing on the issue. 

When the summary suspension expires, regardless of whether or not a hearing has been held, the licensee may return to serving alcohol.

Summary:

After a preliminary investigation is completed, the Board may summarily suspend a liquor license for up to 180 days.

Votes on Final Passage:

House 95  0

Senate 49  0    (Senate amended)

House 97  0    (House concurred)

Effective: July 27, 2003