HB 159 Summary

• The Idaho State Police director issues licenses for retail liquor sales by the drink, with limits based on city population (1 license per 1,500 residents) and up to 2 licenses for cities with 1,500 or fewer residents.

• Licenses valid for 10+ consecutive years at the same location may be renewed indefinitely regardless of population changes, provided the licensee meets all other qualifications.

• Special licenses permitted for golf courses (9+ holes with minimum yardage), ski resorts (250+ skiable acres or 100+ overnight accommodations), equestrian facilities (40+ acres with 6,000+ seats and 3+ annual professional rodeos), and airport restaurants.

• Establishes provisions for club licenses (limited to members and guests), convention center licenses (35,000+ square feet in cities with 3,000+ population), and lodging/dining facilities operated by gondola resort complexes.

• Added provisions allow licenses for federally recognized Indian tribes operating food, conference and lodging facilities with 35,000+ square feet and 50+ guest rooms within reservation boundaries.