SB276 Summary

• Authorizes wineries, distilleries, and breweries that conduct tastings and samplings within entertainment districts to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption in those districts.

• Allows patrons to exit licensed premises with open containers and consume beverages anywhere within the entertainment district boundaries, but prohibits entering other licensed premises with outside beverages.

• Permits Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, and Class 5 municipalities, plus municipalities with incorporated arts councils, main street programs, or downtown development entities to establish entertainment districts.

• Establishes district requirements: Class 5 and arts/downtown entities may establish up to 2 districts; Class 1-4 municipalities and those within 15 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico may establish up to 5 districts; each district requires minimum of 4 licensees and cannot exceed one-half mile by one-half mile in area.

• Takes effect on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.