SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5917

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.

Title: An act relating to allowing the liquor control board to implement a pilot project appointing up to ten colocated contract liquor stores in urban areas.

Brief Description: Allowing the liquor control board to implement a pilot project appointing up to ten colocated contract liquor stores in urban areas.

Background: Washington is one of 18 liquor control states, in which the state has a monopoly over the distribution and sale of specified types of liquor. In Washington, spirits may be sold only in state liquor stores and contract liquor stores. An exception allows limited sales of spirits by craft distilleries. The Liquor Control Board (Board) determines the localities where state liquor stores are established and the number of stores within each locality. The Board must also appoint contract liquor stores in cities and towns and other communities where no state liquor store is located. There are approximately 166 state liquor stores and 162 contract liquor stores in the state.

Summary of Bill: The Board is directed to conduct a pilot project, appointing up to ten co-located contract stores within existing grocery stores. A grocery store containing a co-located contract store must have a fully enclosed retail area encompassing at least 9000 square feet. The Board must report the results of the pilot project to the Legislature by January 1, 2013.