HB215 Summary

• Increases the maximum number of entertainment districts that Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 municipalities can establish from five to nine within their corporate limits.

• Allows patrons to exit licensed premises with open containers of alcoholic beverages and consume them anywhere within the entertainment district boundaries, provided they do not enter another licensed premises with any containers.

• Requires each entertainment district to have a minimum of four licensees holding appropriate retail or manufacturer licenses and limits each district to one-half mile by one-half mile in area, though districts may be irregularly shaped.

• Creates special provisions for Class 8 municipalities in counties with Class 2 or 3 municipalities, and island municipalities, allowing two to three entertainment districts with specified requirements.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.