SB 296 Summary

• Eliminates population-based quota restrictions on on-premises alcohol licenses that previously limited issuance to 1 license per 1,500 people in a jurisdiction.

• Removes quota limits on specially designated merchant licenses, previously restricted to 1 per 1,000 people, and on specially designated distributor licenses, previously limited to 1 per 3,000 people.

• Simplifies language throughout the liquor code by replacing "shall" with "must" and making numerous technical corrections to statutory language.

• Preserves local legislative approval requirements for on-premises licenses and maintains existing special license categories for resorts, universities, airports, and other specific establishments.

• Maintains application approval timelines requiring the commission to issue or deny initial and renewal licenses within 90 days of receiving a completed application.