Senate Bill 2253 Summary

• Expands the definition of "qualified resort area" to include 23 specific types of facilities and locations, including event venues, golf courses, state institutions of higher learning, and flea markets, enabling alcoholic beverage sales in these designated areas.

• Allows governing authorities of certain municipalities and county boards to issue package retailer's permits in qualified resort areas through ordinance or resolution, enabling the receipt, storage, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages in those areas.

• Removes the prohibition on sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at public athletic events at public schools, community colleges, colleges, and universities.

• Requires elections to be held before municipalities can be designated as qualified resort areas under specific definitions, with ballots requiring a majority vote in favor of establishment.

• Authorizes on-premises retailers to sell one bottle of wine per every two entrees ordered as part of carry-out orders and allows certain manufacturers to have financial interests in retail premises where their products are not sold.