CO HB1096

State and local licensing authorities may issue special event permits for selling fermented malt beverages or malt, spirituous, or vinous liquors by the drink only to qualifying organizations, political candidates, and now municipalities, counties, or special districts.

Adds "educational" as a qualifying purpose for incorporated organizations seeking special event permits and clarifies that state institutions of higher education include each principal campus of a state system of higher education.

Expands eligibility to allow municipalities, counties, and special districts to obtain special event permits for alcohol sales, in addition to existing qualifying organizations and political candidates.

Repeals previous provision allowing special event permits only to municipalities owning arts facilities with artistic or cultural productions.

Takes effect August 8, 2018, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2018 general election.