HB 2570 Summary

• Prohibits state agencies, cities, towns, or counties from permanently revoking business licenses due to noncompliance with pandemic-related executive orders unless they can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the business caused disease transmission through willful misconduct or gross negligence.

• Requires written notice of noncompliance and a separate written notice of intent to suspend or revoke a license at least 30 days later before any license action can proceed, with businesses given 20 days to respond.

• Mandates that any disputes over license suspension or revocation be resolved in court, and prohibits agencies from taking action until all appeals are exhausted; courts may award reasonable attorney fees and damages.

• Caps civil penalties issued by the Department of Liquor Licenses and Control at $500 per violation for executive orders related to the COVID-19 state of emergency proclaimed March 11, 2020, and requires refunds of any excess amounts within 10 business days.