SB 5090 - DIGEST

Declares an intent to close a portion of the state's retail liquor stores, to contract out their operation to private individuals, and to monitor the impact of the store closures.

Creates a task force on the contracting out of liquor to advise the board as it implements further contracting out of liquor stores.

Provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the board is directed to implement the closure of twenty-five state liquor stores between July 1, 2007, and December 31, 2007. When determining which liquor stores to close, the board must give due consideration to recommendations from the task force.

Requires contract liquor store managers to sell the board's liquor to retail customers and all eligible liquor licensees on the contract liquor store premises at prices set by the board.

Provides that, in addition to other provisions of law, it is unlawful for any contract liquor store manager or employee to: (1) Sell or offer for sale any liquor other than from the original package or container;

(2) Sell, give away, or permit the sale, gift, or procurement of any liquor for or to any person under twenty-one years of age;

(3) Sell, give away, or permit the sale, gift, or procurement of any liquor for or to any person apparently intoxicated;

(4) Permit the consumption of any spirits, strong beer, or alcohol on the premises by any person;

(5) Alter, change, or misrepresent the quality, quantity, or brand name of any liquor with the intent to defraud;

(6) Permit any person under twenty-one years of age to sell or give liquor to any other person, except to assist a cashier who is twenty-one years of age or older; or

(7) Purchase or otherwise obtain liquor in any manner or from any source other than that specifically authorized in this act.

Directs the joint legislative audit and review committee to study the impacts of further contracting out the state's retail sale of liquor, and to deliver a report on their findings to the legislature by December 31, 2009.